## Trump's Leadership Strengthens Netanyahu's Military Leverage in Gaza

In a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, President Trump's return has emboldened Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, facilitating a more aggressive military approach in Gaza.

The conflict in the Gaza Strip has escalated dramatically, with the renewed offensive costing over a thousand lives just weeks after its onset. Previously, such actions would have stirred intense condemnation and calls for restraint from Western nations, notably from the Biden administration, which struggled to temper Netanyahu’s aggressive strategies.

Now, with Biden out of office, Trump’s administration seems less inclined to challenge Netanyahu's decisions. During a recent meeting in the Oval Office, Trump praised the Israeli leader while steadfastly avoiding topics related to recent fatalities from Israeli airstrikes on civilian targets, which included ambulances and shelters. Although Trump discussed trade and economic matters extensively, his silence on Gaza highlights a deliberate policy shift that favors Israeli operations.

Analysts, like Sanam Vakil from Chatham House, comment on Netanyahu's apparent confidence due to the lack of immediate backlash from the U.S. or Europe amid Trump’s focus on issues closer to home, such as his ongoing trade disputes. This change has granted the Israeli government additional political latitude to pursue military objectives without fear of significant international repercussions, which may further escalate tensions in the already volatile region.