Is Trump Frustrated with Netanyahu Over Gaza Conflict?

Washington, May 17 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump stated that he is not frustrated with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza continues.

"No, look, he’s in a challenging situation. Don't forget, October 7 was a day that was one of the most violent in history, not just the Middle East, but the entire world, if you watch the footage," Trump told Fox News' Bret Baier during an interview from Abu Dhabi.

"That issue should have never arisen."

During his inaugural overseas trip to the Middle East, Trump did not visit Israel, instead traveling to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

Baier questioned Trump about whether he believes Netanyahu thinks a potential nuclear agreement with Iran would be detrimental to the region amidst ongoing negotiations.

"Bibi is understandably angry due to the events of October 7. He has been deeply affected by that, but in some ways, it has also strengthened him because he has fought hard and bravely," Trump replied.

Trump, who has previously mentioned that Gaza should be taken over by the US and developed, reiterated that it should transform into a 'freedom zone'.

"Gaza is a troubled place. It has been for years. I believe it should be a free zone, a 'freedom zone'," the President expressed.

"Hamas is present, and devastation is rampant. The crime stats? It's a dangerous area."

On Friday, Trump indicated he wants the US to intervene in the Gaza situation after a new wave of severe Israeli airstrikes, noting that 'many people are starving' and he anticipates 'a lot of good things' in the coming month.

"I foresee many positive developments in the next month, and we must also assist the Palestinians," Trump remarked to reporters on Air Force One while returning to the US after his Middle East tour.

When asked about his stance on Israeli plans for escalating the conflict in Gaza, Trump responded: "Many people are starving in Gaza, so we need to consider both perspectives."

"But we will perform well," he added.

Earlier on Friday, during his final leg of the Gulf visit in the United Arab Emirates, Trump stated: "We are examining Gaza, and we need to address that. Numerous people are suffering there. There are many negative occurrences happening."

The Israeli military ramped up operations across Gaza on Thursday, resulting in over 100 casualties and pledging to continue airstrikes as Trump proposed creating a 'freedom zone' in the area.

Most of the casualties were reported in Jabalya in northern Gaza and in Khan Younis in the south, as per Gaza Civil Defence.

On Thursday, the US President reaffirmed his intention to take control of the Gaza Strip, telling a business meeting in Qatar that the US would 'transform it into a freedom zone'.

When asked if the three countries he visited would contribute to the solution, Trump replied: "I spoke with all three, and they will definitely help. They are not just wealthy but also genuinely good people, and they would provide assistance. Money is not the issue. We need countries to agree to take action."