Trump Contradicts Netanyahu on Gaza Starvation Crisis
Former US President Trump acknowledges 'real starvation' in Gaza during Scotland visit, contradicting Netanyahu's denial of the humanitarian crisis as UN warns of catastrophic situation.
Donald Trump speaks about Gaza humanitarian crisis during Scotland meeting with UK Prime Minister
In a significant diplomatic development during his meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Scotland, Donald Trump acknowledged the reality of starvation in Gaza, directly contradicting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's assertions.
Humanitarian Crisis Escalates
During his controversial visit to Scotland, Trump stated, "those children look very hungry... that's real starvation stuff," marking a significant departure from Netanyahu's stance that claims of starvation in Gaza are a "bold-faced lie."
UN Warns of Catastrophic Situation
The UN's humanitarian chief has emphasized the urgent need for "vast amounts" of food aid, describing recent delivery efforts as merely "a drop in the ocean." According to the Hamas-run health ministry, 147 people, including 88 children, have died from malnutrition since October 2023.
"We need a sustained period of delivery - weeks, months - to build up, to stop that starvation and build up the supplies again. Ultimately, we need a ceasefire," stated Tom Fletcher, UN humanitarian chief.
Israeli Response and Aid Efforts
Israel has implemented new measures including:
- 10-hour daily "tactical pauses" in three areas
- Designated secure routes for aid convoys
- Resumption of international aid drops
Despite these efforts, European leaders continue pressing for increased humanitarian access, with most UN food lorries facing severe challenges in delivery due to security constraints and desperate civilians.
Death Toll and Ongoing Conflict
The conflict has resulted in at least 59,821 Palestinian casualties according to Gaza's health ministry, following the October 7 Hamas attack that killed approximately 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostages.
Thomas Reynolds
Correspondent for a London daily, specialist in British foreign policy and transatlantic issues.