Israel celebrates «first phase» of peace deal by bombarding Gaza

Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu celebrated the «first phase» of the agreement between Israel and Hamas. Yet just hours later, according to NBC News, Israeli strikes were still ongoing in Gaza.

Both sides had accepted the initial step of a ceasefire plan in Gaza, meant to pause hostilities in the devastated territory.

«I am very proud to announce that Israel and Hamas have both signed off on the first phase of our Peace Plan,» wrote Trump on his social network Truth Social. Trump continued in his post: «This means that ALL of the hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace.»

While a withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza is explicitly named as part of this first phase of peace, several outlets, including NBC News, report that massive Israeli bombardments are still taking place in Gaza, with no mention or details of when they will end.

Trump went on to declare, «This is a GREAT Day for the Arab and Muslim World, Israel, all surrounding Nations, and the United States of America,» adding in his post that «All Parties will be treated fairly!»

On his side, Netanyahu celebrated the moment on X with a fake AI-generated photo of himself placing a large golden Nobel Prize medal around Donald Trump’s neck, surrounded by confetti and the slogan «Peace Through Strength»: «Give Donald Trump the Nobel Peace Prize — he deserves it!»

In a previous post, the official account of Israel’s Prime Minister on X stated that Netanyahu and Trump had a «very emotional and warm conversation» over the phone, during which they were «congratulating each other on the historic achievement of signing the agreement for the release of all the hostages.»

The post added: «The Prime Minister thanked President Trump for all his efforts and for his global leadership, and President Trump congratulated the Prime Minister for his determined leadership and the actions he led.»

Earlier today, even as a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas had been approved, explosions were still reported in Gaza. Footage from NBC News showed smoke and blasts in southern and central areas, while the Israeli military warned that territory north of Wadi Gaza is «still considered a dangerous combat zone.»

President Trump is scheduled to travel to the Middle East early next week to personally sign the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.