Washington, D.C. (Agencies): Israel and Hamas have reached a significant agreement involving the release of all hostages, as announced by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. The deal, mediated by Qatar, also establishes a 42-day ceasefire and includes a prisoner exchange, marking a breakthrough in the ongoing Middle East conflict.
“We have a deal for the hostages in the Middle East,” Trump declared on his TruthSocial platform on Wednesday. “They will be released shortly.” He credited his recent election victory as a pivotal moment for the agreement, calling it a testament to his administration’s commitment to peace and security.
“This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November,” Trump stated in a subsequent post. He emphasized that his incoming administration would ensure Gaza does not become a haven for terrorist activity and hinted at more significant achievements in the future.
Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy, played a crucial role in the negotiations held in Doha, Qatar. “This deal was achieved because of the help of many and demonstrates that a policy of peace through strength wins,” Witkoff told Israel’s Channel 12. He extended gratitude to Israeli negotiators, Qatar, Egypt, the Biden administration, and Trump himself.
The agreement reportedly came after Qatari ruler Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani engaged in talks with senior Hamas officials to secure their acceptance. Egyptian and Turkish intelligence officials, along with Israeli Mossad and Shin Bet leaders, were also involved in the negotiations.
The ceasefire represents a rare consensus in a region plagued by longstanding tensions and violence, offering a temporary respite and hope for sustained peace.