Jerusalem, Oct 4 (NationPress) The Israeli government, along with pertinent security agencies, has initiated preparations for the first phase of the Trump plan, aimed at liberating the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.

The Chief of the General Staff of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) held a special assessment meeting on Saturday, responding to recent developments.

"Following directives from the political leadership, the Chief of the General Staff has instructed to enhance readiness for the first phase of the Trump plan concerning the hostages' release. It was reiterated that the safety of IDF personnel remains a high priority, with all IDF resources dedicated to the Southern Command to secure troop safety," stated an IDF announcement.

"The Chief of Staff emphasized that due to operational sensitivity, all troops must maintain heightened alertness and vigilance, underscoring the necessity for a swift response to counter any threats," the statement continued.

The situational assessment meeting included the IDF's Deputy Chief of Staff, the Director of Operations, the Director of Intelligence, the Director of Planning, the Commander of the Defence Intelligence Headquarters, the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, the Southern Command's Commander, and the Air Force Commander.

Earlier in the day, in India time, US President Donald Trump expressed approval of Hamas' decision to free all hostages from Gaza, stating that it was "a significant day" and he was "eager for the hostages to return to their families".

"I just want to emphasize this is an extraordinary day. In numerous ways, it is unprecedented, but I thank everyone, including the great countries that assisted. We are very close to achieving this. We need to finalize the details soon," Trump mentioned in a video address.

In a separate post on Truth Social, Trump urged Israel to "immediately halt the bombing of Gaza to ensure the safe and swift release of the hostages!" He also expressed optimism that Hamas was "prepared for enduring PEACE".

These remarks followed Hamas' announcement of its intention to release all Israeli hostages held in Gaza and hand over the remains of deceased captives.

In a statement via Telegram, Hamas affirmed its willingness to promptly engage in negotiations through mediators to discuss the arrangement's specifics.

They also agreed to transfer governance of Gaza to a "Palestinian body of independent technocrats, grounded in Palestinian national consensus and supported by Arab and Islamic nations".

Approximately 48 individuals are estimated to still be in captivity, with 20 believed to be alive.

Hamas disclosed its decision shortly after President Trump issued an ultimatum, demanding that the group endorse his Gaza peace plan by Sunday or face severe consequences.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, "An agreement must be finalized with Hamas by Sunday Evening at SIX (6) P.M., Washington, DC time. All nations have endorsed this! If this LAST CHANCE agreement is not achieved, unprecedented retaliation will ensue against Hamas," he warned.

Trump's 20-point peace proposal for Gaza outlines the creation of a temporary technocratic government, with Israel committing not to annex the Strip and ensuring no residents are forcibly displaced. The agreement stipulates an immediate cessation of hostilities if accepted, with all captives, both living and deceased, returned within 72 hours.