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Donald Trump, former U.S. president and Republican presidential candidate, looks on at the Club 47 USA event in West Palm Beach, Florida, U.S., October 11, 2023. REUTERS/Marco Bello/File Photo
Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's preparedness for a recent attack by Palestinian Hamas militants, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 people in Israel.
Speaking to Fox News, Trump, the leading contender for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, remarked that Netanyahu had been seriously affected by the attack, suggesting that Israel was not adequately prepared.
He stated, "He was not prepared. He was not prepared, and Israel was not prepared. And under Trump, they wouldn't have had to be prepared."
Trump's comments come at a time when Israel is still grappling with the aftermath of one of the most devastating attacks in its history. In retaliation, Israel has launched airstrikes on Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 1,200 Palestinians.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, one of Trump's competitors in the Republican race, criticized the former president for his remarks, deeming it "absurd" for anyone, particularly a presidential candidate, to attack Israel, a friend and ally.
Trump and Netanyahu had a close relationship during Trump's presidency, although recent strains have emerged in their once-solid rapport.
Speaking to supporters in Florida, Trump once again discussed Israeli security preparedness, highlighting "some of the things that went wrong over the last week."
He added, "They've got to straighten it out because they're potentially facing a significant force, potentially with Iran."
