Trump Reportedly Urges Netanyahu to Conclude Gaza War Before Possible Return to Office
Donald Trump has reportedly urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to conclude the ongoing Gaza conflict before the next U.S. presidential term begins. According to two sources close to the matter—a former Trump administration official and an Israeli government source—Trump raised this concern during a meeting at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida.
While publicly expressing his support for Israel's swift resolution, Trump privately emphasized his desire for Israel to wrap up the conflict before January 2025. The sources indicate that while Trump is open to allowing some Israeli military operations in Gaza post-resolution, he has suggested an end to the official hostilities by that time. This approach aligns with Netanyahu’s and Israeli officials' statements regarding Israel’s continued security presence in Gaza, even after active combat subsides.
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In a recent address, Trump criticized President Joe Biden's stance, which encourages restraint in Israel’s response to escalating regional tensions, and hinted at a more lenient approach if he wins the presidency. Additionally, he tied the war’s end to a critical condition: securing the release of American and Israeli captives held in Gaza.
Israeli officials have reportedly expressed concern about Trump’s timeline, noting internal and strategic constraints that may complicate a rapid conclusion. Some believe a protracted conflict could strain relations if Trump returns to office, creating a dilemma for Netanyahu as he balances U.S. diplomatic expectations with internal coalition demands.
Meanwhile, Hamas official Taher al-Nounou contends that Netanyahu’s negotiations with mediators on the conflict’s end serve as a stalling tactic tied to the U.S. election cycle. According to al-Nounou, Hamas insists on a complete ceasefire, an end to Israel’s blockade, and the rebuilding of Gaza, viewing a temporary prisoner exchange as insufficient.
As diplomatic conversations continue, both Hamas and Israeli sources suggest any proposed deals are likely to be complex, requiring cooperation from both sides to address security and humanitarian concerns.