U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning on Tuesday, indicating he would authorize a "lethal intervention" should the Islamist group Hamas resume its assaults in the Gaza Strip, despite a ceasefire currently in place between Israel and the Palestinian organization.
In a statement on his official X account (formerly known as Twitter), Trump was unequivocal: "If Hamas continues to kill people in Gaza, which was not part of the agreement, we will have no choice but to go in and eliminate them. Thank you for paying attention to this matter!"
This declaration arrives merely a week following the announcement of a peace agreement between Israel and Hamas, brokered secretly by his son-in-law Jared Kushner and American businessman Steve Witkoff. The pact, unveiled by Time magazine, facilitated a halt in hostilities after months of conflict and the release of dozens of hostages.
The Kushner-Witkoff Plan Unveiled
The Kushner-Witkoff Plan, endorsed by Trump, called for an immediate ceasefire, a partial withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, and the release of 20 Israeli hostages in exchange for the liberation of over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 serving life sentences. It also included provisions for massive humanitarian aid access and the recovery of deceased captives' bodies.
Diplomatic sources reveal the agreement was crafted independently of the State Department and negotiated directly with officials from Israel, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey. The White House heralded the deal as a personal triumph for President Trump and evidence of his ability to resolve international disputes with what he terms “the art of the deal.”
Future Steps and Challenges
The agreement's second phase involves establishing an interim civilian government in Gaza, the demilitarization of Hamas, and a verification force composed of moderate Arab nations. Additionally, a reconstruction program is planned, funded by the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates.
Trump has promised to visit Israel and Egypt "very soon" to partake in a symbolic signing ceremony and oversee the agreement's implementation personally. "I had to speak a little tough with everyone," he joked at a press conference, alluding to the intense negotiations of recent days.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government approved the pact with a cabinet majority, although it faces significant criticism from factions concerned that concessions to Hamas might ultimately empower the group. Israeli analysts suggest the agreement was feasible due to direct pressure from Washington and fatigue from prolonged military offensives.
Understanding the Implications of the Gaza Peace Agreement
What are the key components of the Kushner-Witkoff Plan?
The plan includes a ceasefire, partial Israeli troop withdrawal, hostage exchanges, humanitarian aid access, and a future reconstruction program.
Why is the agreement facing criticism in Israel?
Critics argue that concessions to Hamas could strengthen the group in the long term, potentially undermining Israeli security.
What role did the U.S. play in the agreement?
The U.S., through Trump's administration, was instrumental in brokering and pressuring for the agreement, showcasing Trump's deal-making approach.