Trump Says Israel ‘Safer’ With Swift Gaza Offensive, Cites Hostage Role

President Donald Trump on Friday defended Israel’s continuing military campaign in Gaza, brushing aside calls from some relatives of Israeli hostages who oppose a renewed occupation of the territory. Asked why Washington still backs the operation, Trump told reporters, “Not all of them,” referring to the families, and added, “I am the one who got the hostages out.” Trump said people "can’t forget October 7th," the day Hamas fighters stormed southern Israel, and argued that Israel would be “safer in many ways” if its forces “went in fast” and conducted the campaign “properly.” His remarks signal continued U.S. support for Israel’s offensive despite growing international concern over civilian casualties and the fate of remaining captives.