Former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed he could end the war in Gaza by pressuring Israel to seek peace. During an interview with Fox News, Trump criticized Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Majority Leader in the U.S. Senate, for condemning Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. He suggested that Israel should distance itself from the Democrats, then mentioned he would advise Netanyahu to quickly end the war and urge Tel Aviv to move away from the state of violence.
Trump told host Howard Kurtz that the matter should be resolved quickly and return to a peaceful state. He emphasized the need for peace in the world and mentioned that solving the violence in the Middle East would be one of the first things he would accomplish if he wins the U.S. presidential election in November, alongside ending the war in Ukraine.
He continued, stating he would attempt to end the war before taking office, despite U.S. laws prohibiting citizens from acting as government representatives. Trump expressed his desire to achieve this before, “you know, before I get into office, if that’s possible, and I believe it is.”
The Daily Beast commented on the former president’s statements, noting that ending the wars in Gaza and Ukraine adds to the list of things Trump wants to do as soon as he takes office if he wins. He has previously expressed a desire to act as a dictator on his first day in office, ordering the closure of borders and increasing gas and oil drilling operations in the United States. Last week, he also expressed a desire to release those convicted in the Capitol riot, describing them as hostages.
The situation in Gaza has reached catastrophic levels, marked by unprecedented humanitarian crises and destruction following recent conflicts. As of March 18, 2024, the death toll has risen dramatically, with over 32,000 Palestinians and approximately 1,139 Israelis killed since October 7, 2023. The devastation across Gaza includes damage to over half of Gaza’s homes, numerous educational facilities, and critical healthcare infrastructure, severely impacting the region’s ability to provide basic services to its residents.
The healthcare system in Gaza faces dire challenges, with hospitals experiencing catastrophic shortages of medical supplies and power outages threatening the collapse of essential medical services. Pregnant women and newborns in incubators are among those at immediate risk due to the lack of operational healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the spread of diseases, exacerbated by the damaged healthcare infrastructure and overcrowded conditions, raises fears of widespread epidemics.
Oxfam has labeled the conflict as the deadliest in the 21st century, highlighting the significant humanitarian needs that remain unmet due to the ongoing violence. The International Court of Justice has heard cases against Israel for allegedly committing genocide in Gaza, underlining the severe international concern over the situation.
