The White House confirmed that sensitive negotiations are ongoing regarding a proposal from US President Donald Trump aimed at ending the conflict in the Gaza Strip. During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the delicate nature of discussions but refrained from providing specifics, stating, “I certainly don’t want to get ahead of any announcement at this podium.”
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has issued a directive for all remaining Palestinians to evacuate Gaza City, declaring it a critical opportunity to leave. Katz warned that anyone who remains would be classified as a supporter of militants and would face the full force of Israel’s ongoing military operations. This directive comes amidst escalating violence, with local hospitals reporting at least 16 Palestinian fatalities across the territory.
As the situation unfolds, Hamas is currently reviewing Trump’s proposal. A senior official within the group communicated to the Associated Press that some elements of the plan are deemed unacceptable and require modification. This official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the discussions, noted that Hamas has reached out to long-standing mediators Qatar and Egypt for further dialogue and has requested additional time to deliberate on the proposal.
Since Israel commenced its major offensive last month, approximately 400,000 Palestinians have fled Gaza City, which is grappling with severe famine. Many residents remain unable to leave due to financial constraints or physical weakness, leaving them vulnerable amidst the continuing conflict. Katz reiterated the urgency for residents to move south, stating, “This is the last opportunity for Gaza residents who wish to do so to move south and leave Hamas terrorists isolated in Gaza City.”
The humanitarian situation has worsened significantly, with reports of casualties resulting from Israeli airstrikes. On Wednesday, at least seven individuals, including first responders, lost their lives when two Israeli strikes targeted a school sheltering displaced persons in Gaza City, according to al-Ahli Hospital. Following this, five additional Palestinians were killed in a separate strike near a drinking water tank in the same city. Casualties have continued to mount, with three more fatalities reported in central Gaza Strip strikes.
As the conflict continues, the situation remains volatile, particularly with the onset of Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement, which begins at sundown on Wednesday. Businesses, public transportation, and broadcasting services will cease in Israel during this period, further complicating the humanitarian response efforts.
