Yoel Israel: 'The reason why I like to speak to strangers is because the conversations you have with strangers are different'

Israel's Prime Minister issued an unusual late-night statement responding to President Trump's declaration, which had welcomed Hamas's response to his peace plan and demanded Israel immediately halt its bombing campaign in Gaza. Notably, Netanyahu avoided addressing Trump's demand for a ceasefire—though Israeli operations to take control over Gaza have already been paused in recent days. Instead, the PM stated that "in light of Hamas's response, Israel is preparing for immediate implementation of the first phase of Trump's plan." He pledged to work "in full cooperation with the President to end the war in accordance with the principles Israel has established."

Edouard Cukierman: 'The idea of the Iron Dome is just an illustration of Israeli technology capabilities'

The Hostage Families Forum welcomed Trump’s statement, urging Netanyahu to begin swift talks for all hostages’ return; Anat Angrest thanked Trump, saying she feels 'closer than ever to hugging Matan,' while Ruby Chen voiced 'cautious optimism'

Israel halted offensive operations in Gaza overnight in what officials call a tactical pause to support hostage negotiations; Troops remain in place with orders to focus on self-defense as Hamas signals readiness for talks

After urging Israel to 'stop the bombings' and avoid negotiating under fire, Trump praised the cease-fire and warned Hamas to act quickly or face consequences, stressing Gaza must not remain a threat

Following Trump’s demand to stop strikes after Hamas accepted part of his peace plan, Netanyahu ordered a halt to operations in Gaza; The IDF shifted to a defensive position, preparing to implement the plan’s first phase

CBS reports American intelligence sources claim Netanyahu directly ordered IDF drone attacks from a submarine on two Gaza flotilla ships docked in Tunisia last month; The fires caused were allegedly set by incendiary materials