WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump expressed skepticism about the durability of the Gaza ceasefire he helped negotiate.
“I’m not confident. It’s their war, not ours,” Trump stated, answering a reporter’s question in the Oval Office.
Trump described Gaza as resembling a “massive demolition site” and called for a complete overhaul of its infrastructure.
Israeli Politicians Criticize Truce, Press for Conflict Revival
Some Israeli right-wing leaders have heavily criticized the ceasefire, claiming it concedes too much power to Hamas.
Itamar Ben-Gvir, leader of the Jewish Power party, resigned from his role as national security minister this week.
His resignation further weakens Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s already fragile coalition government in the Israeli Knesset.
Smotrich Threatens to Resign if Netanyahu Retains Ceasefire
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also threatened to quit unless Israel resumes military operations after 42 days.
“I secured a promise from Prime Minister Netanyahu to return to the battlefield after the ceasefire’s initial phase,” Smotrich said.
The statement shows Smotrich’s firm opposition to continuing peace efforts with Hamas under any circumstances.
Ceasefire Sparks Heated Debate in Israel and the US
Critics claim the ceasefire offers Hamas breathing room, while supporters see it as a chance for eventual rebuilding.
Netanyahu is caught between coalition demands and international pressures, straining his ability to maintain unity.
The Gaza truce agreement includes three phases, yet political tensions may hinder its successful completion.
