US President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday praised the hostage release and ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, which was agreed just five days before he returned to power.
“We have an agreement for the hostages in the Middle East. They will be released shortly. Thank you!” Before there was any official announcement from outgoing President Joe Biden’s White House, Trump said on his Truth social network.
In another Truth Social post, Trump took full credit for the agreement, saying, “This EPIC ceasefire agreement could only have happened as a result of our historic victory in November.” He believes his administration’s commitment to seeking peace and negotiating agreements sends a powerful signal to the world.
The agreement is expected to include a phased ceasefire, with Hamas releasing 33 of the approximately 100 hostages held inside Gaza during an initial 42-day phase. Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy for the Middle East, played a key role in negotiating the agreement, working closely with President Biden’s negotiators. Trump thanked Witkoff and vowed that the US would continue to work closely with Israel and its allies to ensure that Gaza never again becomes a safe haven for terrorists.
“We will continue to work closely with Israel and our allies to ensure that Gaza never again becomes a safe haven for terrorists,” he wrote.
The agreement is a significant development in the region, marking a major shift in the dynamics of the conflict. The Trump-era Abraham Accords, which established relations between Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, have laid the groundwork for further normalization agreements. Trump has expressed optimism that the Abraham Accords could be expanded, even suggesting that Iran could be persuaded to join.
The Biden administration has been working toward a ceasefire agreement for months, and while they may not have secured the agreement themselves, their efforts have undoubtedly contributed to its success. Trump’s warning that there would be “all hell” in the Middle East if Hamas does not release hostages before his inauguration may also increase pressure to reach a deal.
As the agreement comes into force, Palestinians and Israelis are reacting with mixed emotions. In Gaza, large crowds are celebrating the news, with people cheering and cars honking their horns. However, some Israelis are expressing skepticism and saying they will not renegotiate the agreement until all hostages are returned.
Overall, the ceasefire agreement is an important step towards ending the devastating 15-month war in Gaza. Although challenges remain, this agreement offers a ray of hope for a more peaceful future in the region.
