Photo: SAUL LOEB / AFP / Getty Images
President Donald Trump, alongside regional leaders, signed a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas during a summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, on Monday (October 13). The agreement aims to end a two-year conflict and is seen as a significant diplomatic achievement for Trump. The summit included over 20 world leaders, such as Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, among others. Notably absent were representatives from Hamas and Israel, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu citing a Jewish holiday for his absence, despite being directly invited by President Trump.
During the signing ceremony, President Trump expressed optimism about the agreement's durability, stating, "It's going to hold up." He also highlighted the historic nature of the agreement, saying, "This is the day that people across this region and around the world have been working, striving, hoping, and praying for." The ceasefire agreement includes the release of 20 Israeli hostages by Hamas and the freeing of Palestinian prisoners by Israel, leading to emotional reunions in Tel Aviv and Gaza.
The peace agreement, which Trump described as potentially reshaping the Middle East, marks a key moment in his foreign policy. Trump acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized the importance of rebuilding Gaza, stating, "The rebuilding is maybe going to be the easiest part." He also urged Iran to engage in peace talks, suggesting that lifting sanctions could be possible if they are willing to negotiate.
The summit provided an opportunity for Arab and Muslim leaders, including Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, to celebrate their roles in the peace process. The agreement is expected to face challenges in its implementation, but Trump's administration, including special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, is committed to ensuring its success.