NEW YORK: United States President Donald Trump told the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Tuesday that the war in Gaza “must stop immediately.”

Speaking to world leaders in New York, Trump said he has been “deeply engaged” in efforts to secure a ceasefire. Trump reiterated demands for the release of captives held in Gaza, stressing that negotiations must prioritize peace and the safe return of the hostages.

“We have to get it done. We want all 20 back,” he said, referring to the 20 out of 48 remaining captives believed to still be alive.

The U.S. president criticized recent moves by several Western nations to recognize Palestinian statehood, calling it a “reward” for Hamas.

He argued such recognition would only embolden militants and prolong the conflict. Trump’s remarks clashed with those of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who recently stated that Palestinian statehood is “a right, not a reward.”

Experts like Sultan Barakat of Hamad Bin Khalifa University noted that while Trump urged an immediate end to the war, he avoided addressing his administration’s strong support for Israel, which critics say sustains the conflict.