Donald Trump's cabinet and inner circle will consist of both staunch isolationists and stalwart war hawks, leading to uncertainty over how his appointees will influence long-term Middle East agenda items. The administration's immediate focus will be on Israel's ceasefire with Hamas and the release of hostages, but attention will soon shift to relations with Saudi Arabia and Iran's nuclear capabilities. Experts are unsure who will have influence over Trump and the Middle East, with questions surrounding figures such as Mike Waltz, Elon Musk, Marco Rubio, and Steve Witcoff. Trump's confidence in his own diplomatic abilities is evident in his decision to appoint individuals close to him rather than seasoned diplomats.