Israel Preparing to Implement First Stage of US President's Prisoner Exchange Initiative, Prime Minister Declares
As per official announcements, Israel is moving forward with arrangements for the immediate implementation of the first phase of a US-backed proposal for prisoner exchange in Gaza.
Latest Developments
The Palestinian militant group Hamas issued its response to the comprehensive plan on the previous day, after the US president provided them until Sunday to agree or face significant consequences.
The Israeli government must immediately stop the airstrikes of the territory, so that we can secure the captives out securely and promptly!
The US leader expressed belief that the organization had demonstrated willingness for lasting resolution and placed the onus on Netanyahu's government.
Military Situation
Despite the diplomatic progress, witnesses reported that Israeli military planes intensified airstrikes in Gaza City after the president's statement.
The territory's civil defence agency reported that numerous of air strikes and artillery shelling persisted during the night, with several homes destroyed and casualties reported at local hospitals.
Global Responses
- Primary negotiating parties Egypt and Qatari officials welcomed the latest developments
- UN Secretary-General called on all sides to seize the chance to conclude the conflict
- European officials described the developments as promising for ceasefire and captive release
Continuing Hostage Crisis
Primary group representing the families of the captives emphasized that stopping the fighting is essential to avoid serious and permanent harm to the captives.
They appealed on the prime minister to without delay begin effective and swift discussions to bring all captives back to safety.
The country's military chief of staff instructed troops to proceed with readiness for the implementation of the initial stage of the proposal, though lacking specific reference of scaling back military activity in Gaza.
