IDF Halts Artillery Fire in Gaza Under U.S. Pressure — Two Palestinian Children Still Killed

Israel suspended most artillery fire into Gaza and substantially reduced the intensity of airstrikes on May 1, 2026, following intense U.S. diplomatic pressure, according to Haaretz. The IDF instructed field commanders to pause most attacks except in cases of immediate threats to soldiers' lives — a significant operational change reflecting US demands to facilitate ceasefire negotiations. Despite the reported halt, the Palestinian Health Ministry confirmed that at least two Palestinian children were killed by Israeli fire on May 1. The halt came six months after the October 10, 2025 ceasefire took effect and follows sustained US pressure in recent days. The ceasefire remains technically in force but has been widely described as failing, with 824 Palestinians killed since October 2025. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff was reported to be pressing Israel to reduce operations as part of ongoing ceasefire talks. Haaretz noted the instruction to troops did not constitute a formal ceasefire order and that targeted operations against Hamas figures could continue. Palestinian factions welcomed the reported halt as a potential step forward while expressing skepticism given continued deaths.