Donald Trump is getting ready for his second state visit to the United Kingdom. King Charles will welcome him with a lavish state banquet, hosted in Windsor Castle. This is always one of our most high profile and most public facing events. The Trump factor, along with the continuing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, makes this one especially important. Critics are right to say that he alone can’t bring about a ceasefire. Indeed, they consider him their best hope for helping Israel and Palestine reach a durable two-state solution.
With worries spiraling out of control in Gaza, advocates for immediate relief are increasing. Advocates contend that Trump must act now to address the dire humanitarian conditions and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. They argue that Trump’s unique position as a former U.S. president and his established relationships with key leaders grant him an unparalleled ability to influence outcomes in the region.
Analysts note that Trump has an unparalleled opportunity to get in touch with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. More importantly, he can speak out against the aid blockade that is currently imposing collective punishment and vast suffering on Gaza’s civilian population. Critics note that he has more power to change things for the better than any other world leader right now. His previous support for Netanyahu should give us all concern. Will the newly empowered progressive use what influence he has to ameliorate the growing humanitarian disaster in Gaza?
Despite these urgent matters, we see that instead of laying out a plan to address this crisis, Trump seems more concerned with protecting his political benefactors. As observers note, he has maintained a level of unconditional support for Netanyahu, a willingness to look the other way on the emerging tragedy in Gaza. This disconnect has led many to question Trump’s commitment to peace in the region, especially considering his past declarations about ending conflicts, including a controversial claim regarding the war in Ukraine.
The upcoming state banquet has already attracted the ire of UK political leaders. Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, has made clear his intention to boycott the opulent soiree in protest. He argues that Trump’s presence should not be welcomed under current circumstances, emphasizing that the former president should utilize his influence to mitigate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Davey on the same page as Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party. Starmer is right to say we need to engage even with a highly problematic Trump set against the nature of global engagement. This division among UK politicians underscores the complexity of international relations and the varying opinions on how best to address crises like that in Gaza.
As Trump prepares for his visit, many are left wondering whether he will take decisive action to influence a resolution to the ongoing conflict. He will get a hearing with recalcitrant Gulf states such as Qatar. This immense skill may one day be key in getting American hostages returned home and bringing life-saving humanitarian relief to the civilians most affected. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and as a newly-confirmed DOT Secretary, everyone is hoping he won’t waste this unique opportunity to make a lasting difference.