
President-elect Donald Trump claims his team’s pressure was crucial in securing an Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal, challenging the Biden administration’s role in the negotiations.
At a Glance
- Trump asserts his team’s involvement was pivotal in reaching the ceasefire agreement
- The deal includes hostage exchanges and requires approval from Israel’s security cabinet
- Trump emphasizes the urgency to finalize the deal before his inauguration
- Both Trump and Biden administrations claim credit for the diplomatic breakthrough
- The agreement involves a 42-day initial ceasefire and the release of 33 hostages
Trump Claims Credit for Ceasefire Deal
In a bold assertion, President-elect Donald Trump has claimed that his diplomatic team played a crucial role in orchestrating ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Trump, along with his Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, alleges they have been instrumental in pushing for an agreement that would facilitate the exchange of hostages, involving Israeli captives and Palestinian prisoners.
Trump’s statements come at a critical juncture, with the proposed deal requiring approval from Israel’s security cabinet. The President-elect has emphasized the urgency of finalizing the agreement before his inauguration, suggesting that the timing is crucial for its success.
Details of the Proposed Agreement
The proposed ceasefire includes a 42-day initial period, during which 33 hostages would be released, and Israeli forces would withdraw from Gaza. This agreement, if approved, could mark a significant step towards stability in the region. Trump’s team, particularly Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, has been actively involved in negotiations in Doha, Qatar.
“If we weren’t involved in this deal, the deal would’ve never happened,” Trump said. – Donald Trump
The President-elect’s assertive stance on the matter has led to a public challenge of President Joe Biden’s alleged attempts to take credit for the negotiations. Trump has been vocal in his criticism, stating that Biden had no role in the talks.
Biden Administration’s Perspective
While Trump claims credit for the ceasefire, the Biden administration maintains that the deal was reached under a plan set out by President Biden in late May. The outgoing administration emphasizes that American diplomacy and regional changes were key factors in achieving the ceasefire.
“It is the result not only of the extreme pressure that Hamas has been under and the changed regional equation after a ceasefire in Lebanon and weakening of Iran — but also of dogged and painstaking American diplomacy.” – Joe Biden
The Biden administration has worked for months on peace talks, facing repeated breakdowns. However, they acknowledge that Trump’s threats and efforts through Witkoff may have helped push the deal forward in its final stages.
A Bipartisan Success?
Despite the competing claims, some view the ceasefire deal as a bipartisan success in U.S. foreign policy. The Biden administration provided a detailed roadmap for lasting peace, which Trump’s team will be responsible for implementing. This unique situation highlights the complexities of diplomatic efforts during a presidential transition.
“This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November, as it signaled to the entire World that my Administration would seek Peace and negotiate deals to ensure the safety of all Americans, and our Allies, I am thrilled American and Israeli hostages will be returning home to be reunited with their families and loved ones.” – Donald Trump
As both administrations seek to make the deal a part of their presidential legacies, the focus remains on the potential for lasting peace in the region. The agreement includes plans for governance, reconstruction, and security in Gaza, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to resolving the conflict.
Sources:
- Trump says ceasefire ‘would’ve never happened’ without his team
- Trump and Biden both claim credit for Gaza ceasefire deal