US President Donald Trump has announced a fresh humanitarian aid initiative for Gaza, vowing to bypass Hamas exploitation while pressing Israel and allies to help ensure food reaches civilians.
Washington / Jerusalem — US President Donald Trump on Friday pledged to roll out a new humanitarian aid plan for Gaza, amid mounting global concern over reports of starvation in the Hamas-run enclave.
In a call with Axios, Trump stressed that helping Gaza’s civilians was long overdue:
“We want to help people. We want to help them live. We want to get people fed. It is something that should have happened a long time ago.”
Blaming Hamas for Gaza’s Hunger
Trump placed responsibility for the crisis squarely on Hamas, accusing the terror group of seizing and selling humanitarian supplies meant for the people of Gaza. He warned that unless aid is protected from theft, international relief will remain ineffective.
“Good management will stop that,” Trump told NBC News. “Hopefully, the Israelis will provide that.”
Witkoff and Huckabee on the Ground
The announcement came as White House envoy Steve Witkoff and US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee toured Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) centers in southern and central Gaza. Backed jointly by the US and Israel, these centers distribute food and medical aid — but have faced criticism for forcing civilians to cross dangerous areas to receive assistance.
Trump praised Witkoff’s efforts:
“He’s doing great work,” he said, though adding that he had not yet been fully briefed on the envoy’s assessment.
Next Steps Under Review
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed Thursday that Trump plans to approve a new aid strategy after Witkoff’s report. While the details remain undisclosed, the plan could involve expanding GHF operations or launching alternative humanitarian delivery channels.
Trump has signaled readiness for the US to boost its aid commitment, while urging Israel and Western allies to share the burden.
Talks with Netanyahu
During a Thursday meeting in Jerusalem, Witkoff and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the stalled ceasefire-hostage negotiations and explored shifting from piecemeal ceasefire deals to a comprehensive agreement. Trump hinted at developments to come:
“You will see soon.”
Trump’s remarks underscore a dual-track strategy: providing humanitarian aid to Gaza’s civilians while tightening controls to ensure Hamas cannot exploit relief efforts for its own survival.
