“Remember October 7”: Donald Trump Says Hamas Cannot Be Allowed to Stay in Gaza
US President Donald Trump has once again reiterated his strong opposition to Hamas’ presence in the Gaza Strip, declaring that the group “cannot be allowed to stay” in the territory. In an interview with Axios on Monday, Trump invoked the October 2023 terror attack as a grim reminder of the threat posed by the group.
“I have one thing to say: remember October 7, remember October 7,” Trump told Axios, referring to the attack that claimed over 1,200 lives in Israel and led to the abduction of around 250 people. The incident triggered a prolonged conflict between Israel and Hamas that has continued for nearly two years, drawing in several Arab nations in the region.
Trump confirmed he had spoken to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday. Their discussions reportedly included Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza and plans for an assault on Gaza City. Trump asserted that sustained military pressure is the most effective means to dismantle Hamas.
“It was always going to be very tough to get them out,” he said about the hostages held by Hamas, expressing doubt that they would be released through diplomacy alone.
The US President also endorsed Israel’s military approach, stating he would not interfere and would allow the country to carry on with its plans.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu is facing growing international criticism over his government’s plan to evacuate Gaza City and impose military control over the Strip. The proposed full occupation has raised humanitarian concerns and attracted strong condemnation from several world leaders.
In recent diplomatic developments, Australia has joined other countries in supporting the recognition of Palestinian statehood — a move aimed at pressuring Israel to address the humanitarian crisis and return to ceasefire talks. Germany, on its part, has announced a halt to arms exports to Israel that could be used in operations targeting civilians in Gaza, while several nations are reviewing their military and diplomatic relations with Israel amid the ongoing crisis.
