Donald Trump has taken credit for what he called an “epic ceasefire agreement” between Israel and Hamas, a deal that will facilitate the release of dozens of hostages held in Gaza alongside Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody. Trump attributed the agreement to his re-election and upcoming return to the White House.
“This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “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.” Envoys from both the Biden and Trump teams were involved in the negotiations. While Secretary of State Antony Blinken credited the Biden administration for laying the groundwork through a framework introduced last year, he acknowledged the role of Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, as “critical” to advancing the talks.
Blinken expressed hope that Trump would support the agreement after taking office. Trump highlighted the involvement of his team and expressed his vision for the region. “With this deal in place, my National Security team, through the efforts of Special Envoy to the Middle East,
Steve Witkoff, will continue to work closely with Israel and our Allies to make sure Gaza NEVER again becomes a terrorist safe haven,” he wrote. “We will continue promoting PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH throughout the region, as we build upon the momentum of this ceasefire to further expand the Historic Abraham Accords.”
He also linked the agreement to his broader goals, emphasizing his belief in his administration’s unique capacity to foster international peace. “We have achieved so much without even being in the White House,” Trump added. “Just imagine all of the wonderful things that will happen when I return to the White House, and my Administration is fully confirmed, so they can secure more Victories for the United States!”
The ceasefire marks a significant diplomatic milestone, though questions remain about how its terms will be implemented and whether Trump’s claims of credit will resonate with those directly involved in the negotiations.