Israel Confirms Gaza Withdrawal Phase Amid Ceasefire Talks, Hostage Exchange Plans

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Israel has agreed to an initial withdrawal line in Gaza and is awaiting Hamas' confirmation to implement an immediate ceasefire and begin prisoner exchanges, marking a potential end to the nearly two-year conflict. Despite Trump's call to stop bombing Gaza, Israeli airstrikes continued, resulting in significant civilian casualties, including children, which has drawn criticism amid ongoing hostilities. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed suspending offensive operations to prepare for the first phase of Trump's peace plan, while Israel Defense Forces moved to defensive positions, although strikes persisted in certain areas. Trump credited Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for helping advance negotiations and emphasized urgency in implementing the ceasefire to prevent further delays that could jeopardize the deal. The situation highlights a disconnect between Trump's ceasefire claims and the reality on the ground, with critics describing the peace plan as a colonial framework lacking genuine Palestinian self-determination. The international community remains hopeful yet concerned as diplomatic efforts continue to stabilize the region and end the humanitarian crisis.