Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to former U.S. President Donald Trump for his continued support of Israel, particularly amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
In a statement on X, Netanyahu called Trump “the greatest friend that Israel has ever had in the White House,” emphasizing Trump’s efforts to aid Israel’s security and provide essential munitions that had previously been delayed.
Sharing a video message, Netanyahu wrote, “I want to thank President Trump for his unwavering support for Israel. During my recent visit to Washington, I said that Donald Trump is the greatest friend that Israel has ever had in the White House. And President Trump shows that friendship each and every day.”
“He has shown it through his visionary plan for Gaza. This is a plan which Israel fully supports. He’s shown it by sending us all the munitions that were being held up. This way, he’s giving Israel the tools we need to finish the job against Iran’s terror axis. And he has shown it by fully backing Israel and putting the pressure to release the hostages where it truly belongs, on Hamas,” he added.
Netanyahu also confirmed that Israel has accepted Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff’s proposal to extend the temporary ceasefire by 50 days. The plan includes discussions on conditions for a permanent ceasefire, with the release of half the hostages immediately and the remaining hostages contingent on reaching a long-term agreement.
“Again, Israel has accepted this plan, I accepted this plan, but so far Hamas has rejected it. Hamas had also put forward positions for a permanent ceasefire that are totally unacceptable,” Netanyahu stated.
He further announced Israel’s decision to halt the supply of goods and aid into Gaza, alleging that Hamas has been diverting supplies meant for civilians to fund its military operations.
“Israel has decided to stop letting goods and supplies into Gaza, something we’ve done for the past 42 days. We’ve done that because Hamas steals the supplies and prevents the people of Gaza from getting them. It uses these supplies to finance its terror machine, which is aimed directly at Israel and our civilians, and this we cannot accept,” he said.
Netanyahu warned that Israel would take further steps if Hamas continues to hold hostages.
“And throughout this, Israel knows that America and President Trump have our back,” he said, concluding his message with appreciation for Trump’s support.
“Thank you again, President Trump. Thank you for all you are doing to return our hostages, both to our security and provide a future of prosperity and peace for all the peoples of the Middle East.”
The conflict escalated after Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, firing thousands of rockets and infiltrating Israeli towns near Gaza. The assault resulted in hundreds of casualties and hostages being taken. In response, Israel launched airstrikes on Gaza, leading to a prolonged conflict.