Context:

President Trump's initial optimism for a resolution to the Israel-Hamas conflict has diminished as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu plans a significant military escalation in Gaza. The breakdown of a cease-fire has led to a renewed Israeli offensive, and Trump and his team have become distracted, allowing Netanyahu more freedom in his military strategy. Analysts suggest that Trump's disengagement might indicate a tacit acceptance of Israel's aggressive approach, despite his earlier efforts to mediate. As Trump prepares to visit the Middle East, Israeli hawks advocate for force to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages, potentially jeopardizing peace prospects. Meanwhile, Trump's attention shifts towards broader regional issues, such as Iran's nuclear ambitions, rather than the immediate Gaza conflict.

Dive Deeper:

• During a meeting in early April, President Trump expressed optimism about ending the war in Gaza, despite Israel breaking a cease-fire and resuming bombardment. However, by May, the prospects for peace had further diminished as Israel prepared for an intensive military escalation.

• Prime Minister Netanyahu's security cabinet approved the mobilization of tens of thousands of reservists for a new assault on Gaza, with Israeli hawks arguing that force is necessary to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages and ending the conflict. Analysts warn that this escalation could eradicate remaining hopes for peace.

• President Trump's early diplomatic efforts to mediate the conflict and secure hostage release have waned, leading to a more hands-off approach and giving Netanyahu leeway in his military actions. Trump's disengagement is perceived by some as a sign of boredom or acceptance of Israel's tactics.

• As Trump plans a trip to the Middle East, including stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, his focus has shifted to broader issues, such as preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, while his attention to the Gaza conflict remains sporadic.

• There is a stark contrast between Trump's current approach and that of the previous Biden administration, which actively sought to manage Israel's Gaza operations to limit civilian suffering and mitigate international backlash. Trump's sporadic involvement is highlighted by his lack of pressure on Israel regarding humanitarian aid to Gaza.

• Reports suggest Israel might initiate a new ground operation in Gaza if a deal with Hamas is not reached by the time Trump returns from his Middle East trip. This aligns with Trump's potential acceptance of a decisive Israeli military action against Hamas.

• Trump's special envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, has shifted focus from Gaza diplomacy to handling multiple regional issues, including Iran and Ukraine, reflecting the administration's broader strategic priorities beyond the immediate Israel-Hamas conflict.