NBC News reported that Donald Trump, the leading candidate for the Republican presidential nomination, emphasized the need for Israel to take decisive action in its conflict with Hamas, stating that they must “finish the problem.” Trump’s stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict was made clear during a Fox News program, where he expressed his belief that a significant military operation, like the one he suggested, would have prevented the recent invasion if he were in office. However, when questioned about his stance on a ceasefire in Gaza, Trump avoided giving a direct response. The former president, aged 77, has not previously outlined his position on the US or Israel’s strategy during the five-month-long conflict, but he has recently shifted his campaign focus towards an anti-war stance.
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While Trump’s recent comments have been his strongest yet regarding Israel’s actions, he has not provided specific proposals regarding the financial involvement of the US, negotiations for hostages, the situation of civilians in Gaza, or the potential for a one- or two-state solution. Trump’s campaign has also highlighted his record on Israel and placed blame on President Biden for the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East. His national press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, asserted that Trump’s return to office would ensure the protection of Israel, the economic strain on Iran, the pursuit of terrorists, and an end to bloodshed in the region.
Following the Hamas attack in October, Trump announced his support for a future administration to fully back Israel in defeating and dismantling Hamas. His campaign also indicated plans to expand the travel ban to include residents of Gaza if he were to be re-elected. However, Trump’s public support for Israel has diminished in the past four months, while President Biden has faced criticism from left-wing and Muslim-American voters for his stance on Israel’s response to the October attack. Despite increased criticism from the Biden administration, the US has not suspended military aid to Israel and is advocating for a six-week ceasefire agreement, which includes the release of hostages.
