Israeli forces hammered Gaza with airstrikes on Friday, killing at least 70 Palestinians despite mounting international calls for restraint. The barrage came mere hours after U.S. President Donald Trump publicly demanded that Israel halt its bombardment immediately, claiming in a video statement that "everybody was unified in wanting this war to end." Yet, the attacks persisted, targeting homes in Gaza City and leaving dozens more wounded in what local health officials described as a relentless escalation now entering its 729th day.
Trump's intervention marked a dramatic turn, as he announced that Hamas had signaled readiness to release all remaining Israeli hostages—estimated at around 100—in exchange for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and other concessions. Hamas confirmed it would proceed if "proper field conditions" were met, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office responded cautiously, preparing for "immediate implementation" of the first phase of Trump's plan while vowing to maintain security operations. Indeed, the Israeli military issued fresh threats to Gaza City residents, labeling anyone remaining as "terrorists and terror supporters," prompting thousands to flee amid chaotic evacuations.
Moreover, reports from the ground painted a grim picture of the humanitarian toll. The World Health Organization warned that nearly 42,000 people in Gaza now suffer life-changing injuries, including over 10,000 children, as the territory's health system buckles under the strain. Airstrikes demolished residential blocks overnight, with rescuers pulling survivors from rubble in scenes that echoed the war's early horrors. However, Trump's optimism clashed with reality; he insisted the sides were "very close to achieving" peace, even as fresh missile launches from Yemen targeted Israel, broadening the conflict's shadow.
Netanyahu, facing domestic pressure over hostages and war fatigue, hinted at openness to the proposal but stressed no deal without Hamas's full disarmament. Critics, including Palestinian officials, dismissed the plan as unbalanced, favoring Israeli demands. Still, with France, the UK, and Canada recently recognizing Palestinian statehood, diplomatic ripples grew. What path lies ahead for a region scarred by endless violence?