Trump shifts stance on Gaza, presses Netanyahu for food and medicine access

President Donald Trump recently had a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where he emphasized the need to provide assistance to the people of Gaza. Trump expressed his concern for the suffering of the people in Gaza and urged Netanyahu to ensure that they receive essential supplies such as food and medicine. Netanyahu reportedly responded positively to Trump’s push for increased aid to Gaza.

This development marks a shift in Trump’s approach towards Gaza, as he had previously taken a more aggressive stance. Prior to his return to office, Trump had issued warnings to Hamas regarding the release of hostages, threatening severe consequences if they were not freed. During Netanyahu’s visit to the White House in February, Trump even suggested the idea of the U.S. taking control of Gaza and transforming it into a “riviera.”

Following Netanyahu’s visit, Trump set a deadline for the release of remaining hostages and warned of dire consequences if Hamas failed to comply. Despite Hamas not meeting the deadline, Israel postponed military actions until hostages were freed. Eventually, 33 hostages were released before hostilities resumed.

Aid deliveries to Gaza have been halted since March 2, prompting international concern over the worsening situation in the region. While Trump is advocating for increased aid, Israel has insisted on not allowing supplies to enter Gaza until all hostages are released. There have been allegations in Israel that aid intended for the people of Gaza has been diverted to Hamas militants, leading to a scarcity of essential goods.

In a recent address to the United Nations Security Council, former Hamas hostage Eli Sharabi revealed disturbing details about his captivity, including instances where Hamas militants hoarded supplies with U.N. logos in underground tunnels. Sharabi, who suffered from severe malnutrition during his captivity, emphasized the urgent need to release all remaining hostages held by Hamas.

The Coordinator for Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), an Israeli agency, reported that during previous hostage releases, over 25,000 trucks carrying humanitarian aid entered Gaza, totaling almost 450,000 tons.

As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, the international community, led by Trump’s diplomatic efforts, is working towards alleviating the suffering of the people in the region. It remains to be seen how Netanyahu and Israel will respond to Trump’s calls for increased aid and humanitarian assistance in Gaza.