Two senior Israeli officials have expressed concern over Donald Trump’s calls for Israel to quickly end its war against Hamas in Gaza, according to Times of Israel. They worry that if Israel cannot meet Trump’s demands, relations with the U.S. could be strained if he returns to office in January.
One Israeli security official explained that internal political dynamics complicate efforts to end the conflict. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition includes far-right factions that oppose hostage deals tied to a permanent ceasefire.
Additionally, there is broad agreement within Netanyahu’s government against allowing the Palestinian Authority to govern Gaza, which has prolonged the conflict. Israel faces challenges in finding an alternative to fill the power vacuum left by Hamas, leading to fears that the militant group could regain control in areas previously cleared by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
An opposition lawmaker, speaking anonymously, warned that extending the conflict until the 2025 U.S. presidential inauguration could harm relations with Kamala Harris, should she win the election.
However, they noted that Netanyahu has historically managed tensions with Democratic presidents without major fallout, often positioning himself as a leader who can stand firm against U.S. pressure.
The lawmaker suggested that while Netanyahu might prefer Trump’s return to power, he should be cautious, given Trump’s strong ties with Arab leaders who are increasingly advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and distancing themselves from Israel as the conflict drags on.
