U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he is “trying to get things straightened out” with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He also expressed concern about the growing hunger crisis in Gaza, signaling a rare split with Netanyahu’s stance on the ongoing conflict.
Trump made the statement while wrapping up a visit to Scotland. He had been attending the opening of a new 18-hole golf course at his club in Aberdeenshire. A reporter shouted the question at him as he was leaving the event. Trump’s answer was brief but pointed, revealing a possible shift in his tone toward the Middle East conflict.
Just one day earlier, during a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at his Turnberry golf resort, Trump openly acknowledged the worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza. He said there is “real starvation” in the area, highlighting the urgent need for food and medical aid.
His comment marks a departure from Netanyahu’s position, as the Israeli government continues military operations in the Gaza Strip. International organizations have warned about the severe food shortages affecting millions of civilians. Trump’s statement suggests he may be open to a different approach, possibly aimed at encouraging a diplomatic solution.
Trump also touched on other global issues. While flying back to Washington on Tuesday, he spoke to reporters about the war in Ukraine. He repeated a threat to introduce new sanctions on Russia if it does not agree to a ceasefire within the next 10 days.
According to Trump, the U.S. must use all available tools to pressure Russia into ending its invasion of Ukraine. He did not give details about what the new sanctions would include but said they would be “very strong” and “very fast.” His comments reflect growing frustration over the long-running conflict, which has led to thousands of deaths and forced millions to flee their homes.
Trump’s statements come as he prepares for another presidential run. He has been focusing on key foreign policy issues, including Israel, Gaza, and Ukraine, to draw a contrast between his approach and that of the current administration. His remarks may also be aimed at showing leadership and clarity in handling complex global crises.
The former president has a long history of close ties with Israel and Netanyahu. During his time in office, he moved the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem and recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. However, tensions between the two leaders have grown since Trump left office, especially over how to manage the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Trump’s acknowledgment of the hunger crisis could be a sign that he is trying to rebuild trust with both sides of the conflict while also appealing to a broader international audience. His comments indicate a shift from a hardline stance to a more pragmatic view of the crisis.
Observers say Trump’s statements may influence the ongoing political debate in the U.S. over its role in the Middle East. As the situation in Gaza worsens, calls for increased humanitarian aid and a ceasefire continue to grow. Trump’s words could add weight to those calls, depending on how they are followed up with policy actions.
For now, Trump’s remarks appear to show a willingness to re-engage with Netanyahu while also showing concern for the people suffering in Gaza. It remains to be seen whether his words will lead to any real changes on the ground or in diplomatic efforts.