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Trump and US envoy Witkoff discussed plans for the US to take over Gaza aid efforts, amid Israeli war escalation and concerns over worsening humanitarian conditions, Axios reported citing officials.
Donald Trump with Steve Witkoff. (Picture: Reuters)
UPDATED: Aug 6, 2025 00:54 IST
US President Donald Trump and special envoy Steve Witkoff have discussed plans for Washington to significantly increase its involvement in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, Axios reported, citing US and Israeli officials. The conversation took place during a Monday evening meeting at the White House following Witkoff’s return from visits to Israel and Gaza.
Amid stalled ceasefire talks and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s push to expand the war, US officials have expressed growing concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis.
According to Axios, a US official said that the Trump administration will "take over" the management of aid operations in Gaza due to what Washington views as Israel’s inadequate handling of the crisis. While Trump is reportedly reluctant to assume such a role, he sees no viable alternative.
“The starvation problem in Gaza is getting worse,” a US official told Axios. "Trump does not want babies to starve. He wants mothers to be able to nurse their children. He’s becoming fixated on that.”
The administration’s plan is expected to include financial contributions from Gulf nations such as Qatar, as well as logistical cooperation from Jordan and Egypt. However, Trump is determined to ensure the US is not the only country footing the bill, pressing European and Arab allies to contribute.
Despite US reluctance, Israeli officials have welcomed Washington’s leadership on humanitarian aid, viewing it as a way to alleviate international pressure and improve conditions on the ground without stalling military operations.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu is reportedly preparing to push for the full occupation of Gaza, including high-risk areas where Israeli hostages are believed to be held. The move is controversial within Israel’s own defence establishment, with senior military officials warning it could endanger the hostages and force Israel into full control of Gaza’s civilian population.
The Israeli security cabinet is expected to vote on the expansion plan on Thursday. Any escalation, however, could complicate Trump’s efforts to boost humanitarian aid while avoiding deeper US entanglement in the crisis.
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Published By:
Aashish Vashistha
Published On:
Aug 6, 2025
