‘He Kind of Got Bored’: How Trump’s Gaza Peace Hopes Faded Away

During a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House in early April, U.S. President Donald Trump was reminded by a reporter of his 2024 campaign promise to end the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. This comes after Israel broke a fragile ceasefire and resumed its bombardment of Gaza.

Despite the renewed conflict, Trump maintained a tone of optimism when discussing the situation, though the promise to bring an end to the war remained unfulfilled. His stance seemed to reflect his broader foreign policy approach, though the reality on the ground continues to challenge his campaign commitments.

“I’d like to see the war stop,” he replied. “And I think the war will stop at some point that won’t be in the too-distant future.”

One month later, prospects for peace in Gaza have dimmed further.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with Donald Trump in the Oval Office in April.

As Israeli hawks push for increased military action to pressure Hamas into releasing over 20 hostages and ending the conflict, there is growing concern that such an escalation could destroy any remaining hopes for peace. While President Trump initially engaged in diplomatic efforts to secure the release of the hostages and broker a long-term settlement, analysts note that his attention has since shifted away from the crisis, giving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu more room to maneuver.

Netanyahu, with what appears to be a freer hand from the U.S. administration, seems poised to continue his hardline stance. However, this situation leaves a critical question: How will Trump ultimately respond, especially considering his previously stated goal of ending the war? Trump’s future decisions on this matter will likely play a significant role in shaping the conflict’s trajectory and U.S.-Israel relations.