Amid rising tensions, an Israeli strike on the Hamas negotiating team in Qatar on September 9 seemed to push peace further out of reach. However, this event marked a turning point that led to Donald Trump's announcement of a deal to release all remaining hostages, an effort he notably pursued throughout his presidency, a goal also sought by Biden.
The deal, while just the initial step towards comprehensive peace, paves the way for future negotiations concerning Hamas disarmament, governance in Gaza, and full withdrawal of Israeli forces. Trump's distinctive style and his well-established relationships with both Israeli and Arab leaders played significant roles in this breakthrough.
Trump's posturing as a staunch ally to Israel allowed him to apply pressure on Netanyahu in ways unprecedented for a U.S. president. His administration's actions, including relocating the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem and altering the perception of Israeli settlements, demonstrate his commitment to Israeli interests.
Biden's approach contrasted sharply, navigating a more complex domestic landscape and a cooler relationship with Netanyahu. His reliance on a strategy of public support combined with private moderation efforts often chained his administration’s actions.
The conflict escalated to the point where Trump's previous leniency transformed after an attack in Qatar, positioning him on the side of Arab concerns and prompting decisive pressure on Israel to halt conflicts. His ties with Gulf states and prior diplomatic successes, such as the Abraham Accords, lent credibility and leverage in negotiations.
As this deal gains traction, Trump finds himself at the center of a historic turning point, shifting international dynamics, and potentially redefining his legacy concerning Middle Eastern diplomacy. It remains to be seen whether this agreement will lead to lasting change in a region historically marred by violence and conflict.
