Trump Says Hamas Pays Heavily for October 7 Attack After Netanyahu Call

Former U.S. President Donald Trump commented on Wednesday about a call he had with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, sending a strong message against those who carried out the October 7th attack. "I spoke with Bibi Netanyahu and wished him all the best, and wished the people of Israel all the best," Trump stated. He described the day of the massacre as "a terrible day and a terrible tragedy." Trump added, "The other side is paying a very heavy price for what they did on October 7th, believe me." His remarks focused on well wishes for Israel and the cost borne by the perpetrators of the attack, without specifying when the call took place or other topics discussed. Trump's plan to end the war in Gaza, presented a year ago with the release of the last living hostages, has stalled. Israel continues daily strikes and controls most of the devastated Gaza Strip, where Palestinians face harsh conditions. The first phase of the plan, a ceasefire and hostage deal, was implemented, but other objectives like Hamas's disarmament, Israeli withdrawal, and Gaza's reconstruction remain distant. The Gaza Ministry of Health claims at least 1,400 Palestinians have been killed since the October ceasefire, many women and children, without specifying the number of combatants among the dead. The Peace Council proposed a $2.45 billion plan in September to begin Gaza's reconstruction, while UN and EU estimates project reconstruction and recovery needs at $71.4 billion over the next decade.