Donald Trump claimed credit for the "epic ceasefire agreement" reached between Israel and Hamas.
Officials confirmed the militant group has agreed to a deal that would free dozens of hostages held in Gaza, in addition to Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails, and the president-elect trumpeted the ceasefire as a direct result of his re-election and pending return to the White House.
"This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November, as it signaled to the entire World that my Administration would seek Peace and negotiate deals to ensure the safety of all Americans, and our Allies," Trump posted on Truth Social. "I am thrilled American and Israeli hostages will be returning home to be reunited with their families and loved ones."
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Envoys for both president Joe Biden and Trump were present during the negotiations, and while secretary of state Antony Blinken said the proposed deal was based on a framework the Biden administration introduced last year, he praised Trump's choice for Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff's participation as "critical" and expressed hope the president-elect would support the deal while in office.
"With this deal in place, my National Security team, through the efforts of Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, will continue to work closely with Israel and our Allies to make sure Gaza NEVER again becomes a terrorist safe haven," Trump posted. "We will continue promoting PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH throughout the region, as we build upon the momentum of this ceasefire to further expand the Historic Abraham Accords. This is only the beginning of great things to come for America, and indeed, the World!"
"We have achieved so much without even being in the White House," Trump added. "Just imagine all of the wonderful things that will happen when I return to the White House, and my Administration is fully confirmed, so they can secure more Victories for the United States!"
