Trump Supports Ceasefire Despite Israeli Strikes on Gaza

US President Donald Trump reaffirmed support for a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, despite recent Israeli airstrikes on Gaza. The strikes reportedly resulted in at least 70 fatalities, according to Gazan health authorities. These include casualties from a strike on a residence in the Bureij refugee camp, as well as attacks in the Sabra neighborhood of Gaza City and in Khan Younis.

While aboard Air Force One, Trump stated, “Nothing is going to jeopardize” the ceasefire. He attributed the Israeli military’s response to the reported death of an Israeli soldier, claiming that it was a direct retaliation for Hamas’s actions. The death was confirmed by the Israeli military on Wednesday. Trump emphasized the necessity for Israel to respond when attacked, stating, “When that happens, they should hit back.”

Escalating Tensions and Ceasefire Violations

The ceasefire agreement, which took effect on October 10, 2023, was established to end two years of conflict that began after Hamas-led attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. Both sides have leveled accusations of violating the ceasefire terms, with the Israeli military alleging that Hamas attacked forces stationed within the designated ‘yellow line’—an area agreed upon during the truce negotiations.

In response to the renewed hostilities, Turkish officials condemned Israel’s strikes, asserting that they violated the ceasefire. They called on global powers to pressure Israel to adhere to the agreement and criticized its actions as a “policy of genocide.” Israel has consistently denied these allegations, maintaining that its military operations are justified as acts of self-defense.

International Reactions and Future Implications

The conflict continues to draw international scrutiny, particularly as Israel faces accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. Trump remarked on the precarious nature of the ceasefire, suggesting that Hamas must behave appropriately to avoid escalating violence. “If they are good, they are going to be happy, and if they are not good, they are going to be terminated,” he stated, hinting at the severe consequences of continued aggression.

Hamas, for its part, denied responsibility for the recent attack on Israeli forces in Rafah, asserting commitment to the ceasefire agreement. As the situation develops, the prospect of lasting peace remains uncertain, with both sides entrenched in their positions.

The international community watches closely, as renewed escalation could have significant ramifications not only for the region but also for global diplomatic relations.