US President Donald Trump on Monday voiced a desire to see an end to the Gaza war “in the not-too-distant future” during his first in-person meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu since the conflict began. The Oval Office talks came as global criticism mounts over the escalating civilian toll in Gaza.
Trump reiterated ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas and floated controversial proposals, including US-led control over the Gaza Strip and potential relocation of Palestinians. Netanyahu backed Trump’s “bold vision,” saying Israel is working toward eliminating Hamas and allowing Gazans “to freely make a choice to go wherever they want.”
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The meeting took place just hours after fresh Israeli airstrikes struck tents near Gaza hospitals, killing at least two, including a journalist, and injuring nine more. Health workers say thousands of displaced Palestinians believed these hospital areas would be safe from attacks.
A recent report by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics revealed that over 39,000 children in Gaza have been orphaned since the conflict escalated in October. Nearly 18,000 children have died, and tens of thousands more face severe hunger and possible famine due to Israel’s blockade.
