Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly disagreed with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s claim that there is no famine in Gaza, stating he believes a humanitarian crisis is indeed unfolding in the region.
While speaking outside his Trump Turnberry resort in South Ayrshire on Monday, Trump emphasized the urgent need for food aid and civilian protection in Gaza. He voiced concern about the suffering of children and the ongoing devastation. “The people in Gaza need food and safety right now. I’ve suggested to Israel that maybe they need to approach this differently,” Trump stated.
When questioned about Netanyahu’s denial of starvation in Gaza, Trump responded, “I’m not sure about that. From what I’ve seen on television, it appears the children are extremely hungry. We’re providing significant humanitarian aid, and thankfully, other countries are stepping up as well.”
Trump broadly condemned the handling of the conflict, noting that no side had demonstrated effective leadership or strategy. It’s a complete mess.” He emphasized that a new strategy may be required to address the conflict and reduce civilian casualties.
Labour Leader Keir Starmer, who joined Trump at the press interaction, called the Gaza conflict a “real humanitarian crisis,” noting that people in the UK are deeply disturbed by the images and videos coming from the region.
Addressing the issue of hostage negotiations, Trump expressed skepticism about Hamas releasing the remaining Israeli captives. He also claimed that while the U.S. has provided considerable aid to Gaza, much of it is misappropriated. “According to Trump, much of the financial and food aid provided ends up being seized by Hamas.
On the topic of Palestinian state recognition, Trump declined to take a firm stance but said his priority was ensuring that civilians receive urgent assistance: “I’m not going to comment on that. Right now, I just want to see people fed.”
The ongoing Gaza crisis is a central issue in Starmer’s diplomatic discussions with Trump. UK officials indicated that the Prime Minister would press Trump to take a tougher line on Israel and back renewed efforts toward a ceasefire.
Later this week, Starmer is expected to hold an emergency cabinet meeting to address the crisis, which has sparked international outrage due to widespread reports and visuals of starvation and suffering in Gaza. Pressure is also mounting within the UK government, with several cabinet members and over one-third of Labour MPs demanding immediate recognition of a Palestinian state. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy is scheduled to participate in a United Nations conference in New York aimed at discussing a framework for establishing Palestinian statehood.
In a separate but related matter, Trump also commented on the Russia-Ukraine war, expressing dissatisfaction with Vladimir Putin’s actions. Referring to a previously stated 50-day deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire before facing tariffs, Trump warned of tightening the timeline. “I’m very disappointed with President Putin. Every time we think it’s settled, he launches more attacks, killing civilians—including in places like nursing homes,” he said.
Trump concluded, “We’ll likely shorten that 50-day window. Frankly, I believe I already know how this will end.”
