Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has credited former U.S. President Donald Trump with playing a “heroic role” in brokering the Gaza ceasefire, calling the agreement a historic diplomatic achievement.
In a press conference following the deal’s signing, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel had secured “strong guarantees” regarding its security, even as it agreed to a phased withdrawal from Gaza. He stressed that the release of Israeli hostages was a top priority, describing their imminent return as a “national victory.”
Trump, in return, praised Netanyahu for taking the difficult step toward compromise. According to Trump, he reminded Netanyahu during a tense phone call that “Israel cannot fight the entire world” as international criticism of the war mounted. Trump framed the deal as proof of his enduring influence on the global stage, promising to “continue shaping the future of peace in the Middle East.”
Still, the agreement has divided Israel’s political establishment. Far-right members of Netanyahu’s coalition have vowed to resist any concessions to Hamas, warning that troop withdrawals could embolden terrorists. Opposition leaders, however, welcomed the truce, insisting that ordinary Israelis wanted peace more than endless war.
