The third GOP debate begins with candidates competing on foreign policy and who could beat Donald Trump

The third Republican primary debate took place with a smaller field of candidates, as Donald Trump once again skipped the event. The candidates focused on the Israel-Hamas war and tried to position themselves as viable alternatives to Trump. Despite Trump's absence, he continues to maintain a significant lead in the polls. Florida governor Ron DeSantis and former United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley have emerged as potential strong alternatives to Trump.