A veteran Israeli negotiator has praised former US President Donald Trump for his role in brokering a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, suggesting he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts. The peace agreement, ratified by Israel’s cabinet last Friday, has been hailed as a significant step towards lasting peace in the Middle East.
The endorsement comes from Gershon Baskin, a key figure in back-channel discussions with Hamas. Baskin, who worked closely with Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, emphasized the importance of the agreement, stating, “To me, it was clear that President [Joe] Biden projected American weakness while President Trump projects American power. President Trump deserves a Nobel Peace Prize.”
International Reactions and Nobel Prize Considerations
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed openness to the idea of Trump receiving the prestigious award, describing the ceasefire as “the greatest contribution to peace in the Middle East for a generation or more.” However, Nobel Prize organizers have clarified that their decision for this year’s prize was made before the ceasefire announcement, suggesting Trump will have to wait until 2026 to be considered.
Wong also highlighted the impact of international recognition of Palestine, arguing that it increased pressure on Israel to negotiate peace. She criticized Australia’s federal opposition for misunderstanding Trump’s diplomatic approach, which she described as playing by “a different playbook.”
Details of the Ceasefire Agreement
According to the terms of the agreement, hostilities in Gaza were suspended within 24 hours of the deal’s approval, and Israeli hostages held by Hamas were set to be released within 72 hours. As of now, Hamas is holding 48 hostages, with 20 believed to be alive. Their release is expected imminently.
“There are still details that we don’t know, but what is important is that this agreement is a declaration of the end of the war – not a temporary ceasefire,” Baskin noted.
Baskin, known for his progressive stance on peace and advocacy for a two-state solution, revealed that Hamas had been willing to agree to a similar deal over a year ago. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had initially resisted, only relenting under pressure from Trump.
Historical Context and Future Implications
The Gaza conflict has been a longstanding issue, with numerous attempts at peace over the years. Baskin, who previously led negotiations for the release of Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit in 2011, stressed that the current deal could have been reached earlier. “Hamas agreed to all of the same terms in September 2024,” he said, “but at that point, the response of the Israeli negotiators was that the prime minister did not agree to the end of the war.”
The recent developments have sparked discussions on the broader implications for Middle Eastern diplomacy. Trump’s unconventional approach, which some have criticized while others have praised, has undeniably shifted the dynamics in the region.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi also voiced support for Trump’s Nobel candidacy, as reported by Turkey’s state-run Anadolu Agency. Meanwhile, Netanyahu’s office took to social media to advocate for Trump’s recognition, stating, “Give Donald Trump the Nobel Peace Prize – he deserves it!”
Looking Ahead
As the world watches the unfolding peace process, the focus remains on the implementation of the ceasefire and the release of hostages. The success of this agreement could pave the way for further diplomatic breakthroughs in the region.
While Trump awaits potential recognition from the Nobel committee, the international community continues to grapple with the complexities of Middle Eastern politics. The coming months will reveal whether this ceasefire can lead to a more enduring peace.
