Former U.S. President Donald Trump commented on Sunday about the worsening humanitarian crisis and growing reports of starvation-related deaths in the Gaza Strip. His remarks came as Israel announced steps to increase humanitarian aid to the region, although Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied that Jerusalem was responsible for the widespread shortages.
Meanwhile, Trump and other global leaders admitted uncertainty about the future of the war-torn Palestinian territory, especially following the breakdown of ceasefire and hostage negotiations. Talks in Doha appeared to collapse on Friday, prompting both Israel and the United States to withdraw their delegations and accuse Hamas of lacking genuine interest in reaching a truce.
Speaking during his four-day trip to Scotland, Trump was asked by a reporter about recent images showing malnourished children in Gaza. He described the scenes as “horrible” and expressed concern over the situation.
However, Trump quickly shifted the focus by asserting, “They’re stealing the food,” though he did not clarify who “they” referred to. His remark seemed to be a veiled reference to the Hamas militant group, which Israeli officials have frequently accused of diverting aid for its own use.
He went on to express frustration over the United States’ role in Gaza aid efforts, claiming that the U.S. had contributed $60 million to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, while, according to him, “no other country gave anything.”
“It doesn’t feel great when you’re the only one giving,” Trump remarked during a conversation with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. “Nobody else contributed. Nobody even said, ‘Thanks.’ A simple thank you would’ve been nice.”
He added, “We’re providing a huge amount of money, food, and resources. Honestly, without our support, people there would have starved. And even now, it’s not as though they’re getting proper meals.”
The actual figure given to the controversial GHF by the US is $30 million, and the US is also far from the only country to donate humanitarian aid. It is not even the largest donor, as the United Arab Emirates has given a larger percentage of assistance.
