Israel has decided not to launch a large military attack on Gaza while U.S. President Donald Trump visits the Middle East. The delay in action is planned to last for the short duration of Trump’s four-day trip.
According to Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, Israel will hold off its planned offensive for now. However, he added that Israel is still preparing for a major military operation in Gaza. The aim, he said, is to increase pressure if talks do not lead to progress, especially in returning Israeli hostages.
Trump began his trip on Tuesday, departing for Saudi Arabia. After Saudi Arabia, he will also visit the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. His trip is expected to focus on talks about the war in Gaza and peace efforts in the region.
While Trump was flying to Saudi Arabia, Hamas released the last living American hostage in Gaza, a man named Alexander. This release is seen as a goodwill gesture just before the high-profile diplomatic trip begins.
The pause in Israel’s attack plan appears to be part of a broader effort to avoid raising tensions during Trump’s visit. Even though there is no ceasefire in place, the delay may offer a brief window of relief for civilians in Gaza.
Despite this temporary pause, the situation in Gaza remains very serious. Israel’s military actions since October 2023 have caused massive damage. According to health officials in Gaza, at least 52,862 Palestinians have died during Israel’s war in the region. More than 119,648 people have been injured.
Many victims are still buried under collapsed buildings or trapped in rubble on the streets. Rescue workers say they are often unable to reach them because of ongoing Israeli airstrikes or destroyed roads.
The Israeli ambassador confirmed that reserve forces have already been called in. Troops are ready, and military operations could restart at any time after Trump’s visit. The ambassador stressed that Israel is not backing down but is simply waiting for the right moment.
He also mentioned that if there is no progress through diplomacy, Israel will take stronger actions to force Hamas to return hostages. Talks on this issue have stalled in recent weeks, even though international leaders have urged both sides to find a peaceful solution.
The international community has increased pressure on Israel to stop its military campaign. Many countries have condemned the high number of civilian deaths and destruction of homes and hospitals in Gaza.
The International Court of Justice is already reviewing genocide claims against Israel. Last year, the International Criminal Court even issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defense minister Yoav Gallant. The charges include war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Still, the violence has not stopped. The conflict resumed in March after a brief period of calm following a ceasefire in January. That ceasefire had been pushed by the United States and other international partners.
Now, with Trump visiting the region, many hope for a new push toward peace — or at least another pause in the fighting. However, both sides remain far from any long-term agreement.