
President-elect Donald Trump claims his team’s pressure was crucial in securing a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, setting the stage for a potential hostage release.
At a Glance
- Trump asserts his team’s involvement was pivotal in achieving the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal
- The agreement includes exchanging Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners
- Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, played a key role in negotiations
- President Biden also claims credit for the deal, citing his administration’s efforts
- The ceasefire agreement requires approval from Israel’s security cabinet
Trump’s Team Claims Credit for Ceasefire Deal
In a bold assertion of diplomatic influence, President-elect Donald Trump has claimed that his team’s involvement was instrumental in securing a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The deal, which includes provisions for exchanging Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners, is pending approval from Israel’s security cabinet.
Trump emphasized the urgency of finalizing the deal before his inauguration, stating that his team’s pressure was crucial in moving negotiations forward. He specifically highlighted the role of his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, in the talks held in Doha, Qatar.
Competing Claims and Bipartisan Success
While Trump asserts his team’s pivotal role, President Joe Biden’s administration has also claimed credit for the ceasefire agreement. Biden emphasized that the deal was reached under a plan his administration set out in late May, highlighting months of diplomatic efforts.
“If we weren’t involved in this deal, the deal would’ve never happened,” Trump said.
Despite the competing claims, the ceasefire deal is being viewed as a bipartisan success in U.S. foreign policy. The agreement demonstrates the continued influence of American diplomacy in the Middle East, regardless of changes in administration.
Details of the Ceasefire Agreement
The proposed ceasefire includes a 42-day initial period and the release of 33 hostages. It also outlines plans for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. President Biden has suggested the potential for a permanent end to the conflict in the second phase of the agreement.
The agreement goes beyond immediate ceasefire provisions, including comprehensive plans for governance, reconstruction, and security in Gaza. This holistic approach aims to address long-standing issues in the region and create a foundation for lasting peace.
Transition of Power and Continuation of Policy
As the transition of power approaches, concerns have been raised about the continuity of U.S. support for the peace process. To address these concerns, the Biden administration has included Trump’s team in the negotiations, ensuring that the post-conflict plan for Gaza will not be abandoned by the incoming administration.
This collaborative approach between the outgoing and incoming administrations demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a consistent U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, regardless of domestic political changes. It also highlights the importance both leaders place on achieving lasting peace in the region.
Sources:
- Trump says ceasefire ‘would’ve never happened’ without his team
- Trump and Biden both claim credit for Gaza ceasefire deal