Washington, July 4 (V7N) — U.S. President Donald Trump has said that the safety of the people of Gaza is his most important concern, acknowledging that the residents of the region “have been through hell.” His remarks came as the humanitarian crisis deepens amid ongoing Israeli attacks.

According to a report by Anadolu Agency, Trump made these comments on Friday (July 4) in response to a reporter’s question about whether he still advocates for U.S. control of Gaza.

In February, Trump’s proposal for the U.S. to take control of Gaza sparked widespread international criticism. Earlier this week, he expressed hope that a ceasefire in Gaza could be achieved “within the next week” and said he plans to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington soon to discuss Gaza and Iran.

Meanwhile, despite global calls for restraint, Israeli forces launched new strikes on Gaza on Thursday, killing over 100 Palestinians. Among the dead were civilians seeking food at relief centers.

According to the Gaza Health Ministry, more than 57,100 Palestinians — mostly women and children — have been killed in Israel’s military operations since October 2023.

END/RH/AJ