Summary Points
- Ceasefire Catalyst: Donald Trump’s ultimatum before taking office emphasized the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
- Trump Team’s Role: Steve Witkoff, Trump’s chosen envoy, pressured Israeli leadership to finalize the deal during tense negotiations in Doha.
- Outcome: The ceasefire agreement involves hostage exchanges and humanitarian aid, divided into three stages, to be partly executed by the incoming Trump administration.
A Diplomatic Pressure Campaign
Donald Trump’s pre-inauguration ultimatum—warning of “hell to pay” if Israeli hostages were not released—was pivotal in catalyzing ceasefire discussions. His envoy, Steve Witkoff, played an influential role, leveraging Trump’s election victory to intensify negotiations between Israel and Hamas. Reports of Witkoff’s firm stance during the negotiations indicate the Trump team’s strategy: tying the ceasefire timeline to Trump’s looming presidential tenure.
Netanyahu’s Calculations
Experts argue that Prime Minister Netanyahu was under dual pressure: resolving the ongoing conflict to align with Trump’s demands while preserving his political and diplomatic standing. Trump’s ultimatum compounded existing challenges for Netanyahu, compelling him to act swiftly.
Structure of the Ceasefire Deal
The agreement encompasses three stages:
- Stage 1: Release of 33 Israeli hostages by Hamas and an undisclosed number of Palestinian prisoners by Israel, alongside aid entering Gaza.
- Stage 2 and 3: Further hostage exchanges and rebuilding Gaza, to be overseen by the Trump administration.
Bipartisan Acknowledgment
Both Trump and outgoing President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of the deal, with Biden highlighting its implications for rebuilding Gaza and ensuring further hostages’ release.
Conclusion
While Netanyahu may not have been directly “forced,” Trump’s ultimatums and tactical pressure were undeniable factors in expediting the ceasefire. The event underscores the impact of international politics and leadership dynamics in resolving prolonged conflicts.
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