Netanyahu: U.S. Backs Israel's Return to Gaza War, Trump to Resume Military Supplies

Jan 18, 2025, 08:30 AM

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that both U.S. President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump have assured their full backing for Israel to resume military action in Gaza if Hamas violates the terms of the ceasefire and prisoner swap agreement. The agreement, brokered by the U.S., includes a phased negotiation process, with the second phase focusing on further prisoner exchanges and security guarantees. Netanyahu emphasized that any breach of the agreement would lead to a resumption of intense fighting, with the U.S. providing military and diplomatic support. He also stated that Trump has committed to resuming military supplies that were previously halted under the Biden administration. Netanyahu attributed the deal to Israel's military successes and reiterated that Hamas would bear full responsibility for any violations. The agreement follows over 15 months of Israeli attacks on Gaza, which have resulted in more than 46,000 deaths. Negotiations for the second phase are set to begin after the first phase, which lasts 42 days.