U.S. President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump both claimed credit for a Gaza ceasefire-for-hostages deal finalized after months of negotiations. The agreement, supported by a Trump envoy, marks a significant diplomatic breakthrough.
Biden noted the deal closely resembled a proposal he introduced in May. When asked who history would credit, he responded, "Is that a joke?" Trump, however, attributed the success to his November election victory, claiming it signaled a new era of peace-focused leadership. In a social media post, he emphasized his administration’s commitment to global safety and alliances.
Trump dispatched his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, to join the final 96 hours of negotiations in Doha. Biden’s envoy, Brett McGurk, had been present since January 5. A senior Biden official acknowledged Witkoff’s role in securing the agreement.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that Biden wanted the Trump team involved as they would oversee the deal's implementation. Biden emphasized the collaboration, saying, "In these past few days, we have been speaking as one team."
The agreement outlines a potential pathway for Palestinian statehood alongside Israel and a vision for regional normalization, including Saudi Arabia’s integration with Israel and its Arab neighbors.
While the ceasefire holds promise for peace in Gaza, the political credit for this historic deal remains a point of contention. Biden and Trump’s shared involvement highlights bipartisan efforts in addressing complex international crises.
This ceasefire agreement could pave the way for long-term stability in the region, signaling a significant step toward resolving long-standing conflicts.
