White House: Trump’s efforts key to Israel-Hamas ceasefire

John Kirby, the Strategic Communications Coordinator for the White House National Security Council, acknowledged the significant role played by President-elect Donald Trump in facilitating the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media sources.

Kirby emphasized, “I think that’s indisputable. Some of his public statements have proven that he wanted this deal, and it definitely sent a clear message to everyone in the region to continue making efforts. Those efforts we've made are important for the future administration.”

Kirby praised Trump for making the ceasefire a priority, saying, “He made it a priority. I think it really helped, and there’s no doubt about that.” However, he clarified that while Trump’s efforts were key, the ceasefire agreement was ultimately drafted by the current US President, Joe Biden. The Biden administration, according to Kirby, had been negotiating for months to reach the deal.

In a televised farewell address, Biden had a brief back-and-forth with Trump’s camp over credit for the ceasefire. Biden stated, “The plan was drawn up and agreed upon by my team, but it will be up to Trump’s team to implement it.” In response, Trump’s team issued a press release, claiming, “President Trump has secured a Gaza ceasefire deal,” highlighting the contributions of Trump and his special envoy for the Middle East, Steve Whitkoff.

The ceasefire agreement is set to take effect on January 19 and will unfold in three phases. The first phase will last approximately six weeks, during which Hamas is required to release 33 people. While the specifics about the hostages’ conditions remain unclear, the deal stipulates that Israel will release over 100 members of the Palestinian movement in return.

By Tamilla Hasanova