Israeli planes and tanks pounded areas across the Gaza Strip overnight and on Sunday, destroying several residential buildings, witnesses said, as Palestinians desperately awaited implementation of a U.S. plan to end the war.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who has called for an end to the bombing, said on Saturday on his Truth Social platform that Israel had agreed to an "initial withdrawal line" inside Gaza, and that "when Hamas confirms, the Ceasefire will be IMMEDIATELY effective."

The latest escalation comes as Egypt prepares to host delegates from Hamas, Israel, the United States and Qatar for talks on implementiion as the most advanced effort yet to halt the conflict.

Hamas draw a welcoming response from Trump on Friday after saying it accepted certain key parts of his 20-point peace proposal, including ending the war, Israel's withdrawal, and the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian captives. However, the group has left some issues subject for further negotiation, including whether it would be willing to disarm – a key demand from Israel to end the conflict.

"Progress would depend on whether Hamas would agree to the map, which shows the Israeli army would remain in control of most of the Gaza Strip," said a Palestinian official close to the talks.

"Hamas may also ask for a strict timetable for the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. The first phase of talks will determine how things are going to proceed," the official told Reuters on condition of anonymity.

In Gaza City – described by Israel as one of Hamas' strongholds – Israeli forces continued their assaults and warned residents not to return, saying the area remained a "dangerous combat zone."

On Sunday, witnesses said Israeli planes escalated attacks against targets across the city, Gaza's biggest urban center.

The escalation followed a tense night during which drones dropped grenades on the rooftops of residential buildings and troops blew up explosive-laden vehicles, demolishing dozens of houses in two Gaza City neighborhoods, Sabra and Sheikh Radwan.

(With input from Reuters)

(Cover: Members of a displaced Palestinian family who fled Beit Hanun, cook near their belongings on a pavement in Deir el-Balah in the central Gaza Strip, on October 5, 2025. /VCG)