Donald Trump's quick trip to Israel and Egypt was the victory lap he wanted. Anyone watching the speeches he made in Jerusalem and Sharm el-Sheikh could see a man luxuriating in his power - enjoying the applause in Israel's parliament, and in Egypt, basking in the fact that so many heads of state and government had flown in.
His message at Sharm was clear: he had created a historical turning point. Trump declared, All I've done all my life is deals. The greatest deals just sort of happen… That's what happened right here. And maybe this is going to be the greatest deal of them all. However, many observers were left with a different impression from his speeches—that the job is done, even when it is not.
Without question, Trump's push facilitated a ceasefire and a hostage exchange, with Qatar, Turkey, and Egypt applying pressure on Hamas to accept the agreement. His role was indeed pivotal, pressing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to terms he had previously resisted. Yet, this agreement is more of a temporary halt in hostilities rather than a comprehensive peace solution.
Observers emphasize that the ceasefire is not synonymous with peace; it merely sets the stage for further negotiations. The next phase of negotiations requires intricate details to demilitarize Gaza and establish governance—a process that seems daunting. Trump's vision for a lasting peace remains distant, particularly in light of the challenges surrounding Hamas's disarmament and political will from both parties.
Although Trump has proclaimed that his Gaza plan will conclude long-standing conflicts, the reality on the ground reveals a different story. Ceasefires are notoriously fragile, especially without robust commitments from both sides. If the underlying issues are not aggressively addressed, the situation risks reverting to violence, given that hostilities often rear their head after initial lulled tensions.
Moreover, geopolitical complexities remain. The recent ceasefire allowed for a brief exchange of hostages, but immediate challenges arose, including Hamas's compliance with the transfer of bodies of deceased hostages. Israel's patience is wearing thin, with looming threats of reestablishing military pressure if terms of the ceasefire falter.
As Trump returns to Washington, the urgent need for concrete diplomatic efforts becomes apparent. Historical attempts at Middle East peace highlight that simply wishing for peace or declaring it will not suffice—substantial work and commitment from both sides are essential for any chance of success.
