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President Donald Trump addressed reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) should push for a full occupation of the besieged Gaza Strip, including areas where hostages are being held.
When asked if he would support Israel reoccupying all of Gaza as suggested by some Israeli officials, Trump replied: “I don’t know what the suggestion is. We are there now trying to get people fed. The U.S. has given $60 million to supply food for the people in Gaza who need it. Israel will help with distribution and money. Arab states will also contribute. That’s what I’m focused on.”
He continued, “I really cannot say. That will be up to Israel.”
The situation follows months of ceasefire talks between the Israeli government and Hamas. Israel and the U.S. withdrew negotiators last week after Hamas responded negatively to a proposal that included a 60-day truce, phased hostage releases, and humanitarian aid access.
U.S. Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff said Hamas lacked “good faith” in the negotiations. Hamas claimed its stance was “constructive and positive.”
Hamas recently released videos showing emaciated Israeli hostages being held in Gaza, alleging this was due to Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid. Trump told reporters last week that there is “real starvation” in Gaza.
The Israeli Cabinet reportedly met Tuesday to decide on expanding IDF operations in Gaza.
**How many hostages are still in Gaza?**
In March 2023, the Associated Press reported 59 hostages were still captive, with Israel believing 35 of them were dead. Hamas-led militants abducted 251 people in an October 7, 2023, attack on the Gaza Strip.
**How much of Gaza has been destroyed?**
Up to 60 percent of all buildings in the Gaza Strip have likely been damaged or destroyed, according to Reuters.
President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wave as Netanyahu leaves the West Wing of the White House.
*Trump, commenting to reporters last week:* “I’m focused on getting people fed. Starvation is real in Gaza.”
*Netanyahu, at a Cabinet meeting:* “We must continue standing together to achieve our war objectives: defeating the enemy, releasing hostages, and ensuring Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel.”
The U.S. is working to supply funds for food in Gaza and will set up “food centers” with help from other countries.
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According to the passage, how many hostages are still being held in Gaza?
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