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US President-elect Donald Trump hailed a hostage release and ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas on Wednesday, agreed just five days before he returns to power.
"We have a deal for the hostages in the Middle East. They will be released shortly. Thank you!" Trump said on his Truth Social network, before there was any official announcement from outgoing President Joe Biden's White House.
In another Truth Social post, Trump claimed full credit for the agreement, saying, “This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November". He believes his administration's commitment to seeking peace and negotiating deals has sent a powerful signal to the world.
The deal is expected to involve a phased ceasefire, with Hamas releasing 33 of the roughly 100 hostages inside Gaza during an initial 42-day phase. Trump's special envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, played a key role in negotiating the agreement, working closely with President Biden's negotiators. Trump thanked Witkoff and vowed that the U.S. will continue to work closely with Israel and its allies to ensure Gaza never again becomes a terrorist safe haven.
He wrote, “will continue to work closely with Israel and our Allies to make sure Gaza NEVER again becomes a terrorist safe haven.”
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 normalisation agreements. Trump has expressed optimism that the Abraham Accords can be expanded, even suggesting that Iran could be convinced to join.
The Biden administration has been working towards a ceasefire deal for months, and while they may not have secured the agreement themselves, their efforts have undoubtedly contributed to the breakthrough. Trump's warning of "all hell" breaking loose in the Middle East if Hamas did not release hostages before his inauguration may have also added pressure to reach a deal.
As the agreement is implemented, Palestinians and Israelis are reacting with a mix of emotions. In Gaza, large crowds are celebrating the news, with people cheering and honking car horns. However, some Israelis are expressing skepticism, saying they won't trust the deal until all the hostages are returned.
Overall, the ceasefire deal is a significant step towards ending the devastating 15-month war in Gaza. While challenges remain, the agreement offers a glimmer of hope for a more peaceful future in the region.