Today, The Heritage Foundation released a statement regarding the United States and Israel's negotiation with Hamas for a phased release of hostages in Gaza. The agreement includes a temporary ceasefire in the region, aiming to secure the release of nearly 100 hostages, including seven American citizens. The first phase is expected to commence on Sunday with Hamas releasing 33 hostages.
Victoria Coates, Heritage Vice President for the Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy, expressed gratitude towards President-elect Donald Trump and Israeli negotiators. She stated, "Heritage extends our gratitude to President-elect Donald Trump and Israeli negotiators for taking swift action to save innocent lives." Coates criticized the Biden-Harris administration's foreign policy, saying it placed both nations in an untenable situation that resulted in unnecessary death and destruction.
Coates emphasized Trump's leadership skills: "Before he has stepped into the Oval Office, President-elect Trump’s strong leadership and negotiation skills have delivered a deal that the Biden-Harris administration...failed to achieve." She noted that future phases depend on Hamas adhering to the agreement while Israel maintains flexibility against violations.
Daniel Flesch, Heritage Senior Policy Analyst for the Middle East and North Africa, also commented on Trump's role: "Despite months of failed negotiations, President Trump’s impending return to the White House was able to secure the release of these hostages." He highlighted that this development is crucial for Israel's recovery from national trauma since October 7th. Flesch warned against allowing this deal to hinder Israel's aim of destroying Hamas.
Flesch further criticized past U.S. policies: "It must be understood: The United States and Israel would have never been in this situation had the Biden-Harris administration stood firmly by its greatest ally instead of unfreezing billions of Iranian assets."
