Israeli airstrikes and gunfire killed at least 57 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip on October 2, 2025, as Hamas continued to deliberate its response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan aimed at ending the nearly two-year war. The plan, which has been accepted by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calls for Hamas to return all 48 hostages—around 20 of whom are believed to be alive—surrender power, and disarm in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and a cessation of hostilities. However, the proposal does not include provisions for Palestinian statehood, a major point of contention.
A senior Hamas official told AFP that certain elements of the proposal are “unacceptable” and require amendment, without elaborating further. The official said Hamas would issue an official response after consulting with other Palestinian factions. Qatar and Egypt, both key mediators in the conflict, have indicated that additional negotiations are needed to resolve certain aspects of the plan.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains increasingly precarious. Hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties, and many facilities are struggling to provide care amid ongoing airstrikes, shortages of medical supplies, and damaged infrastructure. Doctors and aid workers report immense challenges in reaching those most in need, with many civilians fleeing northern Gaza in the face of escalating Israeli offensives. Israel’s defense minister recently ordered all remaining Palestinians to leave Gaza City, warning that anyone who stays would be considered a militant supporter.
In addition to the violence on land, Israel has intercepted most of the vessels in a high-profile flotilla attempting to break the 18-year blockade of Gaza. The flotilla, consisting of more than 40 ships carrying humanitarian aid, included prominent activists such as Greta Thunberg and several European lawmakers. Israeli authorities said the activists were safe and were being taken to Israel for processing prior to deportation. The interception of the flotilla sparked international criticism and drew attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The Gaza war, triggered by a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, has left a devastating toll. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, more than 66,200 Palestinians have been killed and nearly 170,000 injured since the start of the conflict. While the ministry does not differentiate between civilians and militants, it reports that women and children make up roughly half of the dead. Approximately 400,000 Palestinians have fled Gaza City amid famine-like conditions caused by the blockade and ongoing military operations.
Although Hamas’ military capabilities have been heavily degraded, the group continues to launch sporadic attacks. On October 1, at least seven projectiles were fired into Israel from Gaza, though all were either intercepted by Israel’s missile defense systems or fell in unpopulated areas. Meanwhile, Israeli military operations continue to target sites it claims are linked to militants, a strategy that has further intensified civilian displacement and suffering.
The Trump peace plan proposes guarantees for the flow of humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts in Gaza, with the territory’s more than two million residents placed under international governance. While Palestinians long for an end to the war, many critics argue that the proposal favors Israel and lacks long-term guarantees for Palestinian sovereignty.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community has urged restraint, calling on all parties to prioritize civilian safety and to engage in dialogue to achieve a sustainable resolution. The coming days are expected to be crucial, as Hamas weighs its response to the U.S.-brokered proposal amid escalating violence and worsening humanitarian conditions.
Also Read: U.S. Shutdown Drags On as Senate Stalemate Deepens
