In a surprising intervention into Middle Eastern affairs, former US President Donald Trump has declared that a potential Gaza peace agreement remains "holding," while making the controversial assertion that Hamas leaders should not bear responsibility for recent attacks on Israeli forces.
Trump's Unexpected Defence of Hamas Leadership
The Republican figurehead created waves in international diplomatic circles by suggesting that Hamas's top officials shouldn't be held accountable for assaults carried out by what he described as "rebels" within the organisation. This stance directly contradicts the position held by the Israeli government and many Western allies.
Escalating Violence Prompts Israeli Retaliation
The comments come as Israel launched deadly retaliation strikes across Gaza following attacks that left multiple IDF troops wounded. Military officials confirmed that operations targeted Hamas infrastructure and militant positions in response to what they termed "unprovoked aggression."
Diplomatic Implications of Trump's Statements
Political analysts suggest Trump's remarks could significantly impact ongoing ceasefire negotiations and complicate diplomatic efforts in the region. The former president's unexpected defence of Hamas leadership has drawn criticism from both sides of the political spectrum, with some questioning his understanding of the conflict's complexities.
Israeli officials have maintained their longstanding position that Hamas leadership bears full responsibility for all attacks originating from Gaza-controlled territories. The defence ministry released a statement emphasising that "there are no moderate and extreme factions within a terrorist organisation dedicated to Israel's destruction."
Meanwhile, the White House has yet to comment on Trump's statements, though administration officials reaffirmed their commitment to Israel's right to self-defence while continuing to pursue diplomatic solutions to the ongoing conflict.
