Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump achieved a high-profile diplomatic milestone this week by brokering a ceasefire and hostage-release agreement between Israel and Hamas, signed in Egypt. The deal, widely seen as a significant step toward peace in the region, was hailed as a personal victory for Trump, who has positioned himself as a peacemaker on the international stage.
While the agreement marked a moment of celebration, analysts caution that sustaining this peace will be challenging. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s continued cooperation is crucial for implementing the broader 20-point plan outlined in Trump’s framework. Past U.S. presidents have often struggled to manage Netanyahu, whose decisions are heavily influenced by domestic politics and right-wing pressures.
The deal leaves several key issues unresolved, including Hamas’ future role in Gaza’s administration and the specifics of disarmament. Netanyahu faces increasing political pressure as Israel approaches elections next year, which could complicate adherence to the agreement. Experts note that the plan’s vagueness, though helpful in securing initial approval, means that the most difficult diplomatic work lies ahead.
Trump’s influence over Netanyahu has grown partly due to his unwavering support for Israel on major issues such as recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and affirming the Golan Heights as part of the country. This strong backing has allowed Trump to guide Netanyahu toward agreeing to the ceasefire and hostage release, though the path to long-term peace remains uncertain.
The international community now watches closely as Trump and Netanyahu navigate the fragile balance between political realities in Israel, regional diplomacy, and the implementation of a deal that could reshape the region’s stability.