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US President Donald Trump has defended Israel’s latest airstrikes on Gaza, saying the country acted within its rights after the reported killing of an Israeli soldier by Hamas fighters.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Wednesday, Trump said Israel had no choice but to retaliate.
“As I understand it, they killed an Israeli soldier. So the Israelis hit back, and they should hit back,” he said. “When that happens, they should respond.”
The strikes, which the Hamas-run Gaza authorities say left many Palestinians dead, come amid renewed tensions despite a US-brokered ceasefire that took effect earlier this month.
Trump insisted the truce remains intact, saying “nothing is going to jeopardise” the agreement, but warned that Hamas must maintain restraint.
“Hamas is a very small part of peace in the Middle East, and they have to behave,” he said. “If they’re not good, they will be terminated.”
US Vice President J.D. Vance echoed the president’s remarks, saying the ceasefire is holding “despite a few minor skirmishes.”
According to the Israel Defense Forces, the strikes followed attacks in Rafah, southern Gaza, where two Israeli soldiers were reportedly killed last week and others came under fire on Tuesday.
Hamas has denied any role in the attacks, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire terms. The group also warned that the renewed escalation could delay efforts to locate and return the 13 remaining Israeli hostages still held in Gaza.
The ceasefire agreement, mediated by the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye, was designed to halt hostilities and facilitate humanitarian access after months of devastating conflict.
