Former President Donald Trump has asserted that several Middle Eastern nations are prepared to launch a military operation into Gaza to eliminate Hamas. This bold claim follows recent remarks made on his social media platform, Truth Social, where he detailed supposed offers from unnamed “great allies” in the region. According to Trump, these nations have expressed strong enthusiasm to “straighten out Hamas” with significant military force if the group continues to violate its agreements.
While refraining from naming the specific countries involved, Trump extended gratitude to Indonesia and its leader for their support in the Middle East and for the United States. This statement comes amid a fragile ceasefire that appears to be faltering. Indonesia has previously indicated a willingness to contribute peacekeepers, but no nation has publicly committed to direct combat against Hamas.
Trump portrayed a readiness among these allies, stating, “The love and spirit for the Middle East has not been seen like this in a thousand years!” He indicated he had advised these nations and Israel against immediate action, expressing a sliver of hope that Hamas would act appropriately. However, he issued a stern warning: “If they do not, an end to Hamas will be FAST, FURIOUS, & BRUTAL!”
The situation on the ground remains tense, with reports of ongoing Israeli military actions resulting in Palestinian casualties since the ceasefire began on October 10. Aid delivery has been severely limited, with Gaza’s Government Media Office reporting only 986 trucks entering, a fraction of the promised amount. Recent Israeli airstrikes have further exacerbated the crisis, leading to Palestinian deaths and a temporary halt in aid following the deaths of two Israeli soldiers, which Israel attributed to Hamas, though the group denied responsibility.
Amidst this turmoil, the question of Gaza’s future governance persists. Trump has emphasized Hamas laying down arms, but the group links disarmament to achieving statehood. US Vice President JD Vance, visiting Israel, acknowledged the complexity, stating that a new “security infrastructure” is a prerequisite for any disarmament and highlighting the ongoing efforts to locate missing Israeli hostages, some of whom are believed to be buried under rubble.
In a development indicating deepening US involvement, a new Civilian Military Co-operation Centre (CMCC) has been established in Israel, designed to coordinate Gaza’s reconstruction efforts. Approximately 200 American troops are stationed at this US-led hub. While the Pentagon maintains that US troops will not enter Gaza, this initiative signals a significant American presence and commitment to the region’s post-conflict landscape. Trump’s rhetoric suggests a return to his characteristic bold pronouncements, positioning himself as a pivotal figure influencing geopolitical events.