Trump Seeks U.S. Lead Role in Gaza Aid as Cease-Fire Stalls

Former President Donald Trump and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff have discussed a plan for Washington to assume primary responsibility for coordinating humanitarian assistance to Gaza, according to U.S. officials cited by Axios. Under the proposal, the United States would substantially expand deliveries of food and other relief supplies while cease-fire negotiations between Israel and Hamas remain stalled. Trump told reporters he is "trying to get people fed in Gaza," adding that Israel is cooperating with U.S. efforts to distribute aid on the ground. He also said several Arab states have agreed in principle to help finance the operation. The Republican presidential candidate reiterated he would not back an all-out Israeli offensive that could endanger the hostages still held by Hamas, saying the scope of any re-occupation of Gaza is "pretty much up to Israel."