Israel and Hamas Agree Ceasefire Deal, Trump Confirms

Donald Trump has confirmed that Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire agreement to end the war and release the hostages. The Telegraph has more.

His statement came just after officials from both sides unofficially announced that the deal had been approved.

“We have a deal for the hostages in the Middle East. They will be released shortly. Thank you!” the President-elect wrote on his Truth Social platform.

The deal outlines a six-week initial ceasefire phase and includes the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian detainees held by Israel, an official told Reuters.

Mr. Trump sent his Middle East envoy to Doha earlier this week to secure the ceasefire before his inauguration on January 20th.

Here’s Trump’s full statement on the deal:

This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November, as it signalled to the entire world that my administration would seek peace and negotiate deals to ensure the safety of all Americans, and our Allies. I am thrilled American and Israeli hostages will be returning home to be reunited with their families and loved ones.

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. 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. 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!