Trump Announces Possible Middle East Peace Deal
During a roundtable discussion on antifa at the White House, President Donald Trump mentioned receiving a memo from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, indicating that the United States is close to securing a deal in the Middle East. “Yes, I just received a memo from the Secretary of State saying we’re very close to a deal in the Middle East and they’re going to need me soon,” Trump stated.
Later in the day, Trump took to Truth Social to declare that a deal had been achieved. He proclaimed, “I am very proud to announce that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a peace plan.” This initial phase involves the immediate release of hostages and a withdrawal of Israeli forces to designated front lines, which Trump described as a step towards enduring peace.
Trump expressed optimism, stating, “All parties will be treated fairly!” He characterized the day as significant for Israel, the Arab world, and the United States, praising mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey for their efforts. He referenced this moment as potentially historic.
Israeli TV reported that the agreement was finalized at noon on Thursday, with plans for hostages and prisoners to be released the following Saturday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed the sentiment, saying, “With God’s help, we will bring them all home.”
Trump expressed the possibility of traveling to the Middle East soon, stating he might visit on Sunday, with a “great team” of negotiators in place. He seemed hopeful, saying, “I think it’s going to happen. There’s a good chance it could happen.”
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are currently in Egypt negotiating the details of the potential agreement, following the conflict that began on October 7, 2023. Late Wednesday, Trump implied that discussions were progressing positively, saying, “Peace in the Middle East. It’s a beautiful word and we hope it happens, but it’s very close and they’re doing very well.”
In his earlier remarks, Trump presented a 20-point plan aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza, which included provisions for offering amnesty to those in Hamas who decide to lay down their arms. He also noted that failure to reach a peace agreement could lead to severe consequences for Hamas.
Hamas, in a statement on Friday, indicated its agreement to release all Israeli hostages as part of the proposed peace deal. Meanwhile, Israeli and Hamas officials have continued discussions in Sharm el-Sheikh, with Kushner and Witkoff working to facilitate an agreement. The ongoing developments could lead to significant changes in the region.
