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By Jenna Sundel and Gabe Whisnant
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President Donald Trump responded to reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided that Israel Defense Forces (IDF) should push to fully occupy the besieged Gaza Strip, including operating in areas where hostages are being held.
The president was asked, "Would you support Israel reoccupying all of Gaza as has been suggested by some Israeli officials?"
Trump responded, "Well, I don't know what the suggestion is. I know we are there now trying to get people fed. As you know $60 million was given by the U.S. to supply food for the people of Gaza that are obviously not doing too well with the food.
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"I know Israel is going to help us with that as far as distribution and also money. We also have the Arab states are also going to help us with the money and possibly distribution. So, that's what I'm focused on."
He continued, "I really cannot say. That will pretty much be up to Israel."
Why It Matters
Netanyahu's reported decision follows months of ceasefire talks between the Israeli government and Hamas.
Israel and the U.S. withdrew negotiators last week following Hamas's response to a proposal that included a 60-day truce, phased hostages release and humanitarian aid entry.
U.S. Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff said Hamas had a lack of "good faith" in the negotiations. Hamas said its stance in the talks was "constructive and positive."
What To Know
Hamas recently released videos showing emaciated Israeli hostages being held in Gaza, which the group alleges was the result of Israel's blockade of humanitarian aid to the region.
Trump told reporters last week that there is "real starvation" in Gaza.
"I see it, and you can't fake that. So, we're going to be even more involved," Trump said.
The Israeli Cabinet reportedly met Tuesday to make a formal decision on expanding the IDF's operations in Gaza.
How many hostages are still in Gaza?
In March of this year, the Associated Press reported that there are 59 hostages still in captivity, and Israel believes 35 of those individuals are dead.
Hamas-led militants abducted 251 people in an October 7, 2023, attack on the Gaza Strip.
How much of Gaza has been destroyed?
As much as 60 percent of all buildings in the Gaza Strip have been likely damaged or destroyed, Reuters reported.
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What People Are Saying
President Donald Trump, in comments to reporters last week: "I'm looking for getting people fed right now. For me, that's the number one position because you have a lot of starving people."
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, at the outset of a Cabinet meeting on Monday: "We must continue to stand together and fight together to achieve all our war objectives: the defeat of the enemy, the release of our hostages, and the assurance that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel."
What Happens Next
Trump said last week that the U.S. is working to supply funds for food in Gaza.
"Other nations are joining us," Trump said.
He said the U.S. will also set up "food centers, and we're going to do it in conjunction with some very good people."
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