Less than a week before he is set to return to the White House, former President Donald J. Trump announced a significant breakthrough in the Middle East. Both Israel and Hamas have reportedly agreed to a deal facilitating the release of American and Israeli hostages held in Gaza. The announcement, shared on Trump’s Truth Social account Wednesday morning, detailed the agreement and hinted at a broader ceasefire in the region. Trump attributed the breakthrough to his election victory in November and his administration’s ability to foster “peace through strength.”
“We have a deal for the hostages in the Middle East. They will be released shortly. Thank you!” Trump announced Wednesday on his Truth Social Account. He followed that post up with another: “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.”
Continuing, the president-elect added: “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. 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. This is only the beginning of great things to come for America, and indeed, the World! We have achieved so much without even being in the White House. 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 details of the alleged agreement remain sparse, however. As of Wednesday at noon, the Biden administration had not made any public announcements regarding the deal. However, an Israeli official informed The Hill that an agreement had been reached and that a swift formal approval process was expected. This deal could pave the way for ending the conflict that began over a year ago, following the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas against Israel, which led to Israel’s ongoing military actions against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The ceasefire, mediated with the support of the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, aims to resolve the 15-month conflict that started on October 7.
The truce is reportedly structured in several stages, beginning with a 42-day ceasefire during which 33 Israeli hostages—ranging from women and children to men over 50—will be released. In exchange, Israel will free hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) will pull back from densely populated areas in Gaza while maintaining control over critical pathways. Negotiations are set to begin on the 16th day of the ceasefire, with the goal of securing the release of all remaining hostages and ensuring a full IDF withdrawal from Gaza, the report said.