President-elect Donald Trump credited his incoming administration for playing a decisive role in the recently announced ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
The deal, which involves the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, is awaiting approval from Israel’s security cabinet. Once ratified, it is set to go into effect on Sunday, just one day before Trump’s second inauguration.
Speaking on The Dan Bongino Show, Trump emphasized the influence his team had on the negotiations. “This agreement would never have been finalized without our involvement,” he stated, pointing to Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff as a key player.
Trump added, “We acted quickly, decisively, and ensured this deal was on track. It better be done before I take the oath of office.”
The agreement outlines an initial 42-day ceasefire during which 33 hostages will be released, and Israeli forces will withdraw from Gaza’s population centers. The framework also leaves room for discussions on a long-term resolution to the conflict.
Trump criticized outgoing President Joe Biden, accusing him of unfairly claiming credit for the deal. “Biden didn’t do anything! If we hadn’t intervened, those hostages would still be in captivity,” Trump said.
Biden, who had previously proposed a similar ceasefire plan last May, dismissed Trump’s remarks in an interview with MSNBC.
While acknowledging the terms of the agreement resembled his earlier proposal, Biden refrained from commenting on Trump’s claims of involvement. He focused instead on the hope for a “permanent end to the war” following this breakthrough.
Israel’s security cabinet is set to meet on Friday to deliberate the agreement. If approved, the deal will mark a significant step toward de-escalating tensions in the region.
As the transition of power approaches, Trump appears eager to cement his role in shaping the outcome of the negotiations. The coming days will determine whether this agreement holds and what role the U.S. will continue to play under Trump’s leadership.