Washington D.C : U.S. President Donald Trump has stirred global attention by stating that the decision to fully occupy Gaza is “completely up to Israel,” while underscoring that his administration is currently focused on delivering humanitarian food aid to the besieged Palestinian enclave.
Speaking at a press conference following a signing ceremony at the White House, Trump was asked whether he supported Israel’s reported plans to reoccupy the Gaza Strip. “I don’t know what their proposal is on this matter. This is completely up to Israel. We are currently working to provide food to the people there,” Trump said.
He emphasized that his top concern at the moment is the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. “Gaza people are not in good condition regarding food. I’m focused on that,” he noted. He added that the U.S. is working alongside Israel for the distribution of food aid and that some Arab nations will also contribute financially and logistically to the relief efforts.
Trump also touched upon a range of international issues. On questions about imposing 100% tariffs on countries purchasing energy from Russia, including China, Trump clarified that no specific percentage had been finalized. He said his Middle East Special Representative Steve Witkoff would meet Russian officials in Moscow to discuss the issue further.
Referring to the ongoing war in Ukraine, Trump said, “This is Joe Biden’s war, not mine. I came to put an end to chaos, and I intend to keep us out of it.” He claimed to have ended five wars in the past five months and expressed hope that the Russia-Ukraine conflict would become the sixth.
Trump also hinted at Vice President JD Vance being his likely successor, stating, “He is doing a great job and would probably be more advantageous in this case.” He mentioned Secretary of State Marco Rubio as a possible running mate in a future Republican ticket.
Meanwhile, Israeli media reported rising tensions between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir over Israel’s proposed full-scale occupation of Gaza. According to Israeli state broadcaster KAN, Zamir warned Netanyahu that the occupation plan could trap the country in long-term instability.
During a reportedly heated meeting, Zamir also expressed frustration over accusations of leading a “coup attempt” by Netanyahu’s son, Yair. The Prime Minister’s Office allegedly told Zamir, “If the plan to occupy all of Gaza doesn’t suit you, you should resign.”
Netanyahu, responding to Zamir’s reported resignation threats, said, “Don’t threaten to resign in front of the press. I don’t accept your constant resignation threats when we don’t accept your plan.”
According to sources, Netanyahu remains committed to occupying Gaza, while Zamir remains firmly opposed.
