President Donald Trump stated on October 13th, 2025, that the U.S. is aware of Hamas rearming to restore order and has "given them approval for a period of time" to act as a police force, citing the need for safety in Gaza's devastated areas. This statement comes as Egyptian and regional officials informed the Associated Press that food distribution sites run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which are backed by the U.S. and Israel, are being temporarily shut down as part of prisoner transfer protocols. The GHF spokesperson, speaking anonymously to the Associated Press, described the closures as "tactical changes" during the transfer of prisoners to Israel and emphasized there is "no change to our long-term plan," noting the group has distributed the equivalent of 185 million meals in Gaza since May. The United Nations is preparing to take over food delivery, with 170,000 tons of supplies ready to enter Gaza once cleared by Israel, according to COGAT, which expects deliveries to rise to a minimum of 600 trucks a day. President Trump explained his administration's stance by stating that Hamas has lost approximately 60,000 people and that the remaining members, many of whom were young when the conflict began, are needed to prevent "big crime" and other problems in areas that have been "literally demolished." He expressed optimism that the situation "is going to be fine." Meanwhile, Gaza's Health Ministry reported that over 2,500 Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire while attempting to reach GHF sites. Al Jazeera reported that the GHF site along the Netzarim Axis was dismantled today, although social media posts from the group suggest continued operations in southern Gaza. The GHF Executive Director, John Acree, stated that staff and local partners remain dedicated to their mission and are working to adapt to the needs on the ground. Previous reports indicated that Hamas had begun moving hostages amidst ongoing preparations for hostage and prisoner exchanges. U.S. President Donald Trump had previously expressed optimism about a diplomatic achievement and support from Muslim and Arab countries for ongoing efforts. A summit was planned for October 13th, 2025, in Pisgat Sharm-Sheikh, intended to include President Trump and Egyptian President Abd al-Fattah A-Sisi, among other international leaders, but notably excluded Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and Hamas.
