Middle Eastern Leaders Credit Trump for Diplomatic Progress
On October 13, 2025, at a summit in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, leaders from Middle Eastern nations acknowledged President Donald Trump’s role in a significant diplomatic achievement: the release of 20 Israeli hostages taken by Hamas on October 7, 2023.
Middle East expert Lisa Daftari noted that only President Trump could foster a resolution to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. She stated in an interview that he effectively presented a compelling vision for stability and prosperity to moderate Arab nations.
“He did what only Donald Trump could do and sold a vision to the moderate Arab world,” Daftari indicated, explaining that Trump’s approach essentially told them, “I’m presenting a vision that benefits you.”
Daftari argued that Trump’s bold tactics managed to unite regional powers and brought Hamas to negotiations. She elaborated, saying that he successfully got everyone on board to exert pressure on Hamas and the Iranian regime, advocating for a swift end to the conflict and the return of the hostages.
“Whether it’s real estate or the new Middle East, he was able to get everyone to say, ‘We’re going to put pressure on Hamas. We’re going to end this war and bring the hostages back,'” Daftari explained.
Despite this progress, challenges persist. Daftari pointed out that Hamas does not fully endorse Trump’s 20-point peace plan. Although the initial phase has led to a cease-fire and the release of 20 living hostages, the situation regarding the remaining 28 deceased individuals remains uncertain, with only four having been returned to Israel thus far.
Hamas had initially promised to release the bodies of those hostages but later claimed ignorance about the whereabouts of 24 of them, suggesting they might have been lost, moved, or buried in conflict-affected areas.
Yet, Daftari emphasized the pressing need to disarm Hamas to prevent further attacks. “We need to wait, verify, and ensure that Hamas is dismantled,” she asserted. “If they stay in power, there will be more incidents like October 7. That’s a guarantee, given their ideology.”
Nonetheless, she believes that the release of hostages is a moment to celebrate, hinting at a promising shift in the region.
“The timing of this release, near the anniversary of the attacks, especially poignant on the Jewish calendar, signifies a turning point. It brings about a new chapter and offers real hope for stability moving forward,” Daftari concluded.
