Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly praised President Donald Trump’s leadership in facilitating the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. This acknowledgment comes amid discussions about which U.S. administration deserves credit for the agreement.
During a joint appearance in the Oval Office on February 4, 2025, Fox News’ Peter Doocy inquired about the contributions of former President Joe Biden and President Trump to the ceasefire and hostage deal. Netanyahu responded, “I think President Trump had a great force and powerful leadership to this effort. I appreciate it. He sent a very good emissary. He’s helped a lot.” He added, “I’m happy that they’re here. And I’m sure the president is happy that they’re here. And I would think that’s about enough.”
The ceasefire, reached on January 15, 2025, just days before President Trump’s inauguration on January 20, followed a meeting between Trump’s then-incoming Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Netanyahu. Both the outgoing Biden administration and the incoming Trump team have claimed involvement in brokering the deal.
In his farewell address, Biden stated, “After eight months of nonstop negotiation, my administration… a cease-fire and hostage deal has been reached by Israel and Hamas.” He emphasized that the plan was developed by his team and would be implemented by the incoming administration.
Netanyahu emphasized the importance of U.S.-Israel collaboration, stating, “When Israel and the United States work together, and President Trump and I work together, you know, the chances go up a lot [to reach the second phase of the ceasefire deal].” He noted that difficulties arise “when the other side sees daylight between us.”
The meeting between Trump and Netanyahu also covered topics such as Iran’s influence in the Middle East and the potential resettlement of Gaza residents in other nations.