Israel is preparing to implement first stage of Trump’s Gaza peace plan

Israel’s military announced Saturday it is preparing to carry out the first stage of U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to end the war in Gaza and secure the release of remaining hostages.

In a statement, the Israeli army said it had been directed by national leaders to “advance readiness” for the plan’s implementation. An Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the military has shifted into a defensive posture inside Gaza, halting offensive strikes but maintaining all current troop deployments, according to Reuters.

The development followed Trump’s order earlier in the day that instructed Israel to halt bombing Gaza after Hamas signaled acceptance of certain parts of his plan. 

“I believe they are ready for a lasting PEACE,” Trump said.

Trump has pushed for swift progress toward a peace agreement with the second anniversary of Hamas’ initial assault approaching around the corner on Tuesday. His proposal, unveiled earlier this week, has received broad international backing and won the support of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.