Trump Maintains Ceasefire Holds Despite Gaza Strikes
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump affirmed Sunday that he believes teh ceasefire between Israel and Hamas remains in effect,even as the Israel Defense Forces conducted numerous strikes in the Gaza Strip following reported truce violations by the Palestinian Islamist movement.
Speaking to reporters aboard air Force One en route to Andrews Air force Base in Maryland from Florida, Trump responded to a question about the ceasefire’s status with a firm, “Yes, he is.”
The President suggested that any breaches of the agreement were not directed by Hamas leadership, attributing them instead to “some rebels within the group.” He expressed a desire for a peaceful resolution, stating, “We want to make sure that everything happens peacefully with Hamas.” Trump added, “As you know, they have been quite turbulent. They fired shots, and we think their leaders may not be involved in this.”
Trump assured that the situation would be “handled properly,” adding it “will be managed firmly, but correctly.”
Vice President J.D. Vance earlier downplayed the renewed violence, anticipating “ups and downs” in the ceasefire’s implementation. “Hamas is going to shoot at Israel. Israel will have to respond,” Vance told journalists. “we thus believe that the ceasefire has every chance of delivering lasting peace. But even if he succeeds, there will be ups and downs, and we will have to monitor the situation.”
Donald Trump speaks to reporters aboard ”Air Force One” on October 19, 2025, as he travels to Andrews Army Base, Maryland, upon his return from Florida.MARK SCHIEFELBEIN / AP
