In the early days of his presidency, Donald Trump cast a shadow of uncertainty over the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which remains fragile as of January 21, 2025. While the truce has brought a temporary halt to hostilities and allowed critical humanitarian aid to enter Gaza, Trump’s remarks have raised questions about its future.

“It’s not our war, it’s theirs. But I’m not confident,” the president stated during a press conference, when asked if he believed the ceasefire would hold. His blunt scepticism, delivered alongside a series of executive orders, reflects his characteristic candour but also signals a lack of optimism about the durability of the agreement brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.

Trump’s comments come against the backdrop of a devastated Gaza, where nearly 70% of infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed. While the truce has allowed for some rebuilding efforts and the release of hostages, the president’s remarks suggest that the path to lasting peace is fraught with challenges.

The uncertainty surrounding the ceasefire underscores the volatile dynamics of the region, where each step towards reconciliation remains vulnerable to political and military pressures. Trump’s reservations reflect both the complexities of maintaining peace and the unpredictable nature of the agreement’s longevity.