Trump Urges Calm in Israel as NATO Summit Begins; Addresses Iran, Gaza Ceasefires, and China Oil Trade
As tensions remain high in the Middle East, U.S. President Donald Trump called on Israel to “calm down now” while departing the White House en route to a NATO summit in The Hague. His remarks come amid ceasefire developments involving both Iran and Gaza.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump shared a congratulatory message from NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. The message praised Trump’s “decisive action” in Iran and his success in uniting NATO allies to commit to spending at least 5% of GDP on defense. Rutte added:
“You are flying into another big success in The Hague this evening. Europe is going to pay in a BIG way, as they should, and it will be your win.”
Trump also signaled a shift in U.S. sanctions policy, stating that China may continue purchasing oil from Iran.
“China can now continue to purchase oil from Iran. Hopefully, they will be purchasing plenty from the U.S. also,” he wrote.
China remains Iran’s largest oil customer, reportedly buying over 90% of Tehran’s oil exports, according to data from analysis firm Kpler. This trade has provided a crucial economic lifeline for Iran amid international sanctions.
Meanwhile, Israel’s opposition leader Yair Lapid and families of hostages held in Gaza urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to pursue a ceasefire with Hamas.
