Washington, DC [US], June 30 (ANI): White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on Sunday shared a video showing Palestinians expressing gratitude toward U.S. President Donald Trump as aid kits from the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) were distributed in the region.
In the footage, individuals were seen chanting slogans such as “I love you Trump” and “I love you Donald.” Leavitt also reposted a message from Trump stating, “MAKE THE DEAL IN GAZA. GET THE HOSTAGES BACK!!!”
The aid delivery comes amid shifting dynamics in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signaled a notable shift in priorities during remarks made Sunday at a Shin Bet security agency facility in southern Israel.
“As you probably know, many opportunities have opened up now following this victory. Firstly, to rescue the hostages. Of course, we will also need to solve the Gaza issue, defeat Hamas, but I believe we will accomplish both missions,” Netanyahu said, as reported by CNN.
This marks one of the first instances where Netanyahu has explicitly placed the return of hostages ahead of the military defeat of Hamas. For months, he had emphasized “total victory” over Hamas as Israel’s primary objective. In early May, he referred to the destruction of Hamas as the “supreme objective,” placing less emphasis on freeing the hostages, CNN noted.
Netanyahu’s recent comments represent a potential shift in Israel’s strategic messaging, following mounting public pressure. Families of hostages, opposition lawmakers, and large segments of Israeli society have criticized the government for not making the safe return of the captives a clear priority.
In response to Netanyahu’s remarks, the Hostages Families Forum Headquarters called for a comprehensive agreement to secure the release of all 50 hostages and end the hostilities in Gaza.
“What is needed is release, not rescue. This difference of one word could mean the difference between salvation and loss for the hostages,” the forum stated.
The U.S.-backed humanitarian aid operation and the renewed emphasis on a potential deal come as diplomatic efforts intensify to de-escalate the conflict and achieve meaningful outcomes for both civilians and hostages caught in the crossfire.
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