On Saturday, at the Republican Jewish Coalition Conference, former President Donald Trump delivered a strong message to adversaries of the United States. He focused on the Israel-Hamas conflict, stating, “If you harm any American, we will respond forcefully.”
Trump primarily discussed the Israel-Hamas conflict, which had intensified following the Oct. 7 attack that claimed the lives of numerous Israeli civilians. Israel subsequently initiated a ground operation in the Gaza Strip, which expanded on Saturday. This expansion raised concerns about the well-being of Gaza’s civilian population, already grappling with airstrikes and blackouts.
“We have set two goals for this war: To eliminate Hamas by destroying its military and governing abilities and to do everything possible to bring our captives home. All Hamas terrorists are dead men walking — above ground, below ground, outside Gaza,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a speech earlier this week.
Trump also criticized international college students who expressed support for Hamas, vowing to revoke the student visas of those he considered “Hamas sympathizers” on college campuses if he were to be reelected as president.
“I will cancel the student visas of Hamas sympathizers on college campuses,” Trump said. “The college campuses are being taken over.”
Trump also criticized Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) and Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) for their recurring anti-Semitic comments and anti-Israel actions.
Trump’s remarks followed the United Nations (U.N.) Secretary-General’s call for a cease-fire in the Gaza conflict, emphasizing humanitarian concerns.
“This situation must be reversed. I reiterate my strong appeal for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire, together with the unconditional release of hostages and a delivery of humanitarian relief at the level that corresponds to the dramatic needs of the people in Gaza, where a humanitarian catastrophe is unfolding in front of our eyes,” António Guterres said.
