"Hostage release and ceasefire deal signals breakthrough after 15-month Gaza conflict, with Trump claiming full credit for the agreement."
January 16, 2025: Ahead of his return to the White House, Donald Trump claims his leadership was pivotal in brokering the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and hostage release agreement. The deal, hailed as a significant breakthrough, marks the end of 15 months of conflict in Gaza.
Trump’s Claims and Ceasefire Details
Donald Trump, via his Truth Social network, announced the agreement ahead of any official confirmation from President Joe Biden’s administration, stating:
"We have a deal for the hostages in the Middle East. They will be released shortly. Thank you!"
Also Read: Tel Aviv Celebrates Ceasefire and Hostage Deal Amid Promises of Peace
In a subsequent post, Trump declared the agreement was the direct result of his “Historic Victory in November” and praised his special envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, for his role in the negotiations. He emphasized that the U.S. will work to ensure “Gaza NEVER again becomes a terrorist safe haven.”
Also Read: Global Leaders Welcome Ceasefire and Hostage Deal Between Israel and Hamas
The phased ceasefire includes the release of 33 hostages during an initial 42-day phase by Hamas, with broader terms aimed at preventing future conflicts.
The Abraham Accords and Broader Implications
Trump credited the success of the Abraham Accords—his administration’s earlier agreements normalizing ties between Israel, the UAE, and Bahrain—for laying the groundwork for this ceasefire. He expressed optimism about expanding these agreements and hinted at the possibility of Iran joining future peace talks.
While the Biden administration has been working on a ceasefire for months, Trump’s warning of “all hell breaking loose” if hostages were not released before his inauguration reportedly added pressure to finalize the agreement.
Mixed Reactions
- In Gaza, crowds celebrated the ceasefire with cheers and honking car horns.
- Some Israelis expressed skepticism, remaining cautious until all hostages are returned.
As the ceasefire takes effect, it offers a glimmer of hope for resolving the devastating 15-month conflict in Gaza.
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Donald Trump, Israel-Hamas Ceasefire, Middle East Conflict, Gaza War, Abraham Accords, Hostage Release, Steve Witkoff, Joe Biden Administration, Middle East Peace Talks, US Foreign Policy
