Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly rejected former US President Donald Trump’s call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, insisting that military operations will continue until Hamas is completely neutralised. The ongoing conflict has intensified, with Gaza City facing severe bombardment and humanitarian crises deepening.
Netanyahu’s Defiant Stance
In a televised statement, Netanyahu dismissed Trump’s remarks, stating, "Our objective is clear: the eradication of Hamas’s military and governing capabilities." The Israeli leader emphasised that any pause in hostilities would only serve to strengthen the militant group, which launched a deadly attack on southern Israel earlier this month.
Trump’s Controversial Intervention
Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee for the 2024 US presidential election, had urged Netanyahu to "finish the problem" swiftly, warning that prolonged conflict could damage Israel’s global standing. His comments drew criticism from both sides of the political spectrum, with some accusing him of oversimplifying a complex geopolitical crisis.
Humanitarian Crisis Worsens
Meanwhile, Gaza’s civilian population continues to bear the brunt of the violence. Reports indicate severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies, with the UN warning of an impending famine. International mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, are struggling to broker a temporary truce to allow aid deliveries.
Global Reactions
The conflict has sparked widespread protests across Europe and the US, with demonstrators demanding an immediate ceasefire. The Biden administration, while supporting Israel’s right to self-defence, has increasingly pressured Netanyahu to minimise civilian casualties.
As the war enters its third week, hopes for a diplomatic resolution appear dim, with both Israel and Hamas digging in for a protracted struggle.
