Gazans Express Hope as Trump Pushes for Ceasefire, Hamas Offers to Free Hostages

Residents of Gaza City expressed rare optimism on Saturday after United States President Donald Trump called for an immediate halt to Israel’s airstrikes, following Hamas’ agreement to release hostages under a proposed ceasefire plan.

Thick smoke still rose over Gaza, but many locals said they finally saw a glimpse of hope after months of relentless bombardment.

Some residents, like 24-year-old Jamila al-Sayyid from the Zeitun area, said they were surprised by Trump’s intervention, given his past support for Israel. Despite continued air raids, she and others said they were encouraged by the call for peace and the possibility of ending the conflict.

Hamas confirmed on Friday night that it was ready to free 47 Israeli hostages — including 25 believed to be dead — as part of Trump’s ceasefire proposal. The US president quickly responded on social media, urging Israel to stop its bombing campaign and focus on securing the hostages’ release.

Israel’s military, however, warned that northern Gaza remained unsafe and urged displaced residents not to return to their homes yet.In Gaza City, displaced residents living in makeshift shelters described the announcement as a moment of relief.

Fifty-year-old Sami Adas said Trump’s involvement gave people hope that the war could finally end, claiming that only the US president had the influence to compel Israel to cease its operations.Further south, in Al-Mawasi, 49-year-old Mahmud Abu Shamala said he had long wished for a ceasefire and prayed that both sides would respect it.

However, he expressed doubt that Israel would fully comply once the hostages were freed.The ceasefire proposal, first presented by Trump on Monday, faces several unresolved issues.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly rejected the idea of allowing the Palestinian Authority to govern Gaza, while Hamas has yet to address conditions involving its disarmament or the possible exile of its members.

Still, many Palestinians said the development brought hope after months of stalled peace talks and heavy attacks. In Ramallah, residents described Hamas’ acceptance of the plan as a step in the right direction, with many praying that the war, which has devastated lives and communities across Gaza, would finally come to an end.