Overview

• President Trump was reportedly moved by distressing images of Palestinian children, prompting private calls for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to end the military campaign in Gaza.
• The White House's diplomatic efforts influenced Israel's decision to allow limited humanitarian aid, including baby food, into Gaza for the first time since the conflict escalated.
• Trump's public stance remains one of unwavering support for Israel, with officials emphasizing that his backing is 'ironclad' despite private frustrations over the ongoing crisis.
• The prolonged conflict is testing the U.S.-Israel relationship, with Trump viewing Gaza as a critical hurdle to achieving a broader Middle East peace and securing a legacy-defining accomplishment.
• U.S. officials continue to engage in direct talks with both Israeli leadership and Hamas, seeking to address the humanitarian crisis and facilitate a resolution to the war.