Donald Trump has attributed the failure of the Gaza ceasefire talks to Hamas, indicating his support for Israel’s military actions. Trump, while speaking to reporters before a weekend trip, criticized Hamas. He declared that they ‘want to die’ and that Israel needs to ‘finish the job.’ These remarks represent a clear shift from earlier statements suggesting a deal was within reach. The US administration removed its negotiators from Doha, expressing concerns about Hamas’s lack of good faith. Steve Witkoff, Trump’s Middle East envoy, is looking at other options to secure the release of hostages. Trump expressed disappointment in his recent interactions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, further advocating for military action. Despite Trump’s assertions, officials from Egypt and Qatar characterized the pause in talks as normal. Trump suggested that Hamas has little interest in negotiating due to the limited number of hostages. US officials hope that Trump’s firm statements and Witkoff’s actions will encourage Hamas to return to negotiations. The US has provided $60 million in aid, despite challenges, and an internal review has found no evidence of widespread theft. Trump is scheduled to meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has condemned Israel’s military actions, and has dismissed French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent statement on recognizing a Palestinian state.
