President Trump held a conversation on Sunday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid rising international criticism regarding Israel’s intention to extend its military control over the Gaza Strip.
According to an announcement from Netanyahu’s office, the two leaders talked about Israel’s strategy to target remaining Hamas locations in Gaza, aiming to end the ongoing conflict, secure the release of hostages, and defeat Hamas.
During the call, Netanyahu expressed gratitude to Trump for his ongoing support for Israel since the conflict began.
This discussion takes place as Netanyahu justifies the plan to boost military operations in Gaza, with the stated aim of eliminating the last Hamas strongholds in the region.
Trump appeared to give Netanyahu a green light for actions in Gaza. He commented earlier this week, “We know we’re trying to feed people now… For the rest, I really can’t say that. It’ll be up to Israel.”
In a press conference on Sunday, Netanyahu defended the military approach, claiming that critics and media outlets were spreading “fake” narratives about children suffering from hunger to rationalize the extensive violence against Jews.
In response to the situation, Germany announced on Friday it would stop military exports to Israel that could be utilized in Gaza. France, Canada, and the UK have also indicated intentions to formally recognize an independent Palestinian state, which Israel strongly opposes.
US lawmakers are increasingly vocal about their support for Israel following repeated incidents of US military firing on Palestinians at food distribution sites.
Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), in an interview with CNN, remarked, “Of course, Israel had the right to protect itself from the horrific terrorist attacks from Hamas, but what they have done since has been fighting the entire Palestinian population.” He further criticized Netanyahu’s approach of enforcing lockdowns that block food supplies.
