A significant ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas was reached after 15 months of conflict, set to begin on Sunday. The accord prioritizes hostage releases, boosts humanitarian aid to Gaza, and entails Israeli troop withdrawals. U.S. leaders Biden and Trump claimed credit for the negotiations, receiving mixed reactions from the Middle East. Internationally, the agreement has been welcomed, with leaders from Europe and the Middle East expressing hopes for lasting peace and stability.
Major Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hamas
After a grueling fifteen months of conflict, a significant turning point was reached on Wednesday evening as Israel and the militant group Hamas agreed to a ceasefire. Set to take effect on Sunday, this crucial agreement outlines the release of hostages as a priority, the enhancement of humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas within the region.
Responses from U.S. Leadership and International Community
The Israeli government is scheduled to discuss this agreement today at 11 a.m., with approval expected to be a mere formality. Celebrations erupted in both Tel Aviv and Gaza on Wednesday night, as citizens rejoiced at the news.
Both President Joe Biden and incoming President Donald Trump have claimed credit for this agreement. Biden described the negotiations as the “toughest” of his career during a press conference held Wednesday, expressing that the deal was a direct result of his administration’s efforts. On the other hand, Trump framed the agreement as a personal success, asserting that it was only possible due to their election victory in November. He vowed to collaborate closely with Israel starting Monday.
The conservative publication “Wall Street Journal” echoed Trump’s success narrative, comparing the situation to the release of American hostages in Iran at the onset of Ronald Reagan’s presidency in 1981. Trump’s ultimatum regarding the hostages created a sense of urgency for both parties involved in the negotiations.
Meanwhile, the “New York Times” noted that each president had distinct motivations, with Biden aiming for a dignified conclusion to his term and Trump seeking to tackle significant issues early in his second term. However, it acknowledged that both leaders played vital roles in the negotiations.
The “Washington Post” highlighted the notable collaboration between the two presidents, marking it as an unusual moment amidst a highly polarized political landscape in the United States.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to both leaders, notably contacting Trump first before reaching out to Biden. He credited Trump for aiding Israel in alleviating the plight of numerous hostages and praised his commitment to preventing Gaza from being a safe haven for terrorists in the future.
Reactions in the Middle East have been mixed. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich voiced concerns regarding the agreement, stating that his party would oppose it, while Israeli President Isaac Herzog hailed it as a “decisive moment” and the correct course of action.
Iran celebrated the ceasefire as a “victory” for Palestinian resistance, while Hamas portrayed it as a triumph over Israel, claiming it opens new opportunities for the “liberation” of the Palestinian people. Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati also welcomed the agreement, indicating an end to a brutal chapter in Palestinian history.
Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi urged the international community to take immediate action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
In Europe, the ceasefire has been met with optimism. French President Emmanuel Macron called for a political resolution to the conflict, emphasizing the need for consistent implementation of the agreement. Outgoing German Chancellor Olaf Scholz viewed the agreement as a chance for a lasting resolution to the war, with Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock describing it as a “day of relief.” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer characterized the news as “overdue.”
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also commended the agreement, expressing hopes for peace and stability while referring to Hamas as a “resistance movement.” Turkey has maintained a close relationship with Hamas throughout the conflict.
Switzerland welcomed the phased ceasefire, acknowledging the mediation efforts of Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. The Swiss Foreign Ministry emphasized the necessity of pursuing a two-state solution, allowing Israelis and Palestinians to coexist in peace, security, and dignity.