TEL AVIV — Israel’s army said Saturday it has begun advancing preparations for the first phase of U.S. President Donald Trump’s ceasefire plan for Gaza, following Hamas’ partial acceptance of the proposal.

The military said it was ordered by Israeli leaders to “advance readiness” for implementation of the plan and has shifted to a defensive-only posture inside Gaza, though no forces have been withdrawn.

The announcement came after Trump instructed Israel to halt bombing once Hamas indicated it had agreed to some elements of the U.S. initiative.

“I believe they are ready for a lasting PEACE,” Trump said, framing the proposal as the final chance to end the nearly two-year war and secure the release of dozens of hostages. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has endorsed the plan from Washington.

A senior Egyptian official said negotiations are underway for a hostage release and a prisoner swap involving hundreds of Palestinians, alongside talks aimed at unifying Palestinian factions on Gaza’s future.

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement, which had rejected the proposal earlier, said Saturday it now backs Hamas’ response.

Gaza’s Health Ministry said the death toll in the conflict has surpassed 67,000 Palestinians, with women and children making up about half the dead.

The figures, widely considered credible by the U.N., include more than 700 newly verified names added to the registry.

Trump’s plan calls for Hamas to release 48 Israeli hostages — about 20 of them believed alive — within three days, disarm, and cede control of Gaza to other Palestinians.

In return, Israel would halt its offensive, withdraw troops, release prisoners, and allow humanitarian aid and reconstruction.

Hamas has agreed to release hostages and hand over administration but has not committed to disarmament, a key sticking point.

Meanwhile, tens of thousands marched in Barcelona and other European cities demanding an end to the war. In Gaza, residents like Samir Abdel-Hady said they remain skeptical: “What we want is practical implementation. ... We want a truce on the ground.”

Families of Israeli hostages expressed cautious optimism. “We’re putting our trust in Trump, because he’s the only one who’s doing it,” said Yehuda Cohen, whose son is held in Gaza. — Agencies