Donald Trump received unexpected bipartisan praise after helping negotiate a peace deal between Israel and Hamas, ending two years of war. The conflict began after the “brutal October 2023 Hamas attack,” followed by Israel’s devastating response in Gaza. The ceasefire surprised many given deep U.S. political divides, but the relief it brought led even Trump’s critics to acknowledge the achievement.
The agreement, reached with help from Qatar and other regional mediators, secured the release of the final 20 Israeli hostages, while Israel freed more than 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. Bill Clinton said Trump and his team “deserve great credit,” calling the deal a moment that must be handled carefully to develop into lasting peace.
Chuck Schumer called the hostages’ release “a wonderful day,” praising the administration’s work. Trump urged Israeli leaders to break the cycle of retaliation, arguing that true stability requires negotiation, trust, and cooperation.
Hakeem Jeffries and Barack Obama welcomed the ceasefire and the humanitarian aid it enabled but did not directly praise Trump. Their cautious responses reflected political sensitivities, yet their lack of criticism showed how important the deal was.
The agreement has also revived debate about Trump’s foreign-policy legacy. Supporters say his unconventional approach can achieve results, while critics warn the ceasefire may not last. Trump admitted no one knows how long it will hold but stressed the need to keep “momentum.” Despite uncertainties, the ceasefire has created rare optimism and a shared belief that this opportunity must be protected.