Former President Donald J. Trump, who has been advocating for a swift end to the war in Gaza, expressed that he and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel are still on good terms following their meeting on Friday. Trump assured that he would be a stauncher ally of Israel compared to Vice President Kamala Harris.
During their meeting in Palm Beach, Fla., Trump and Netanyahu, who were close allies during Trump’s presidency, reaffirmed their strong relationship despite strains that emerged after the 2020 election. When asked if they would need to rebuild their ties if Trump won in November, he replied, “We don’t have to; we’ve had a good relationship.”
Trump warmly greeted the Israeli leader at his Mar-a-Lago estate and criticized his presumptive opponent, Kamala Harris, labeling her as “radical” and not “very nice” to Israel. Despite the show of support, Netanyahu faces mounting international criticism over Israel’s military actions in the ongoing conflict.
International Efforts for Cease-Fire
Trump, in an interview with Fox News, emphasized the need for a resolution to the conflict in Gaza, stating, “It can’t continue to go on like this. It’s too long. It’s too much.” Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris and President Biden also met with Netanyahu on Thursday, reiterating their call for a cease-fire that includes the release of hostages held by Hamas.
After her meeting with Netanyahu, Harris expressed her unwavering commitment to Israel’s security while highlighting her serious concerns about the human suffering in Gaza, particularly the loss of innocent lives. She acknowledged the significant civilian casualties and emphasized the urgency of finding a peaceful solution to the conflict.
