Despite its rejection of the second phase of Trump’s peace plan, Israel will make minor concessions under US pressure

KUALA LUMPUR, 18 AUGUST 2026 —

Israel to Make Limited Gaza Concessions Under U.S. Pressure Despite Rejecting Trump Peace Plan

JERUSALEM/Gaza, Aug 17 (Reuters/Bloomberg) — Israel has continued military operations in Gaza despite a ceasefire agreed with Hamas in October 2025, conducting sustained airstrikes targeting militants and security structures. While publicly rejecting the U.S.-backed 15-point peace plan, Israel is expected to make minor concessions under American pressure, including a potential reduction in attacks west of the Yellow Line—a demarcation zone where violence remains concentrated.

Israel’s military campaign has intensified since the start of 2026, with nearly 60% of strikes occurring between May and July. Between October 10, 2025, and August 14, 2026, Israel launched around 200 strikes targeting Hamas militants, including commanders involved in the October 7, 2023, attacks and operatives rebuilding military capabilities. Additionally, at least 38 strikes targeted Hamas security forces, including police officers and members of specialized units.

Under U.S. pressure, Israel has temporarily slowed targeted assassinations, with no recorded incidents between August 3 and 11. However, strikes resumed on August 12, killing a Hamas commander, followed by another on August 13 that targeted a senior police official. Israel’s Shin Bet has established a dedicated unit using facial recognition and AI to track militants, reinforcing its long-term security priorities tied to deterrence and the political fallout from the October 7 attacks.

Israel’s military presence in Gaza has expanded westward since the ceasefire, increasing territorial control from 53% in October 2025 to 65% by June 2026. The Yellow Line, initially a temporary buffer, has seen further encroachment, with concrete barriers erected in at least nine locations as of August 7. Around 80% of incidents involving Israeli forces occur near this zone, where drone strikes, tank fire, and direct gunfire target perceived threats.

While Israel’s refusal to withdraw complicates Hamas’ disarmament and peace plan implementation, domestic and U.S. pressures may force limited adjustments. President Donald Trump’s administration has pushed for de-escalation ahead of U.S. midterm elections, contributing to a temporary slowdown in targeted killings. However, further strikes are expected as Israel’s national elections on October 27 approach, with political and security imperatives likely overriding concessions.

Regional analysts suggest that while U.S. pressure may curb operations temporarily, a sustained withdrawal remains unlikely without a viable security alternative or Hamas’ disarmament. Hamas, facing military pressure and political constraints, is unlikely to accept disarmament before Israel’s elections, given the risk of intensified strikes. Domestic politics in Israel further complicate withdrawal, with coalition partners and opponents resisting concessions while armed groups remain active.

The U.S. role remains pivotal, with Trump’s team pushing for phased progress in the peace plan. However, if U.S. pressure wanes post-elections, Israel may resume operations with fewer constraints. For now, limited tactical adjustments—such as reduced strikes west of the Yellow Line—are expected, but a full withdrawal or halt in military activity remains improbable in the near term.

ACLED’s Gaza Conflict Monitor tracks political violence and property destruction in Gaza, including incidents since October 7, 2023.