Israel Prepares for First Phase of Trump’s Gaza Plan as Hostage Release Talks Continue

Oct 2025 : The Israeli military announced on Saturday that it is advancing preparations for the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s plan to end the war in Gaza and secure the return of all remaining hostages. Israeli authorities said the military has been instructed to prepare for the plan’s implementation, though it currently maintains a defensive posture and will not launch active attacks. No troops have been withdrawn from Gaza, officials added.

The announcement followed Trump’s order for Israel to halt bombing in Gaza, after Hamas indicated its acceptance of certain elements of his plan. Trump welcomed the development, stating, “I believe they are ready for lasting peace.”

Trump is reportedly determined to fulfill his promises of ending the war and returning dozens of hostages before Tuesday, which marks the second anniversary of Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. His peace proposal, presented earlier this week, has garnered broad international support and has received endorsement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. On Friday, Netanyahu’s office affirmed Israel’s commitment to ending the war, while acknowledging unresolved differences with Hamas.

The Israeli Prime Minister is under increasing pressure from the international community and the US to conclude the conflict swiftly. A government official noted that Netanyahu issued a rare statement late Friday, explaining that Israel has begun preparations for Trump’s plan in response to US diplomatic pressure.

Simultaneously, Egyptian authorities confirmed that negotiations are ongoing for the release of hostages and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. These talks aim to coordinate the phased implementation of the peace plan, which includes both security and humanitarian measures.

Meanwhile, protests erupted across Europe in opposition to Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. Large-scale demonstrations were planned in Madrid, Barcelona, Rome, and Lisbon, reflecting growing public outrage over Israel’s blockade of an aid fleet departing from Barcelona. Organizers described the protests as a response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis, calling for immediate measures to protect civilians in Gaza.

As preparations for the first phase of the plan move forward, the situation remains tense, with international scrutiny on Israel’s actions and pressure mounting to ensure the safe return of hostages and the de-escalation of conflict in Gaza.