Gaza ceasefire tests Trump’s claim to ‘man of peace’ legacy

Dr Ramadan Benzeer, Professor of International Law and Human Rights and a member of the Scientific Committee at the National Centre for Research and Scientific Studies, has described former US President Donald Trump as the “man of peace in Gaza”, crediting his diplomatic initiative for achieving what years of international efforts had failed to deliver — a comprehensive ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

The ceasefire agreement, reached after months of mediation involving the United States, Egypt and Qatar, seeks to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza and establish a framework for lasting peace.

Under the terms of the deal, Hamas is to release all surviving Israeli hostages. In return, Israel has agreed to free around 250 Palestinians serving life sentences and approximately 1,700 Gazans detained since the start of the recent hostilities. Israeli forces are also expected to withdraw from Gaza, while the entry of humanitarian aid — including food, medical supplies and fuel — will be permitted without restriction.

Hamas has called on the guarantor states — the United States, Egypt and Qatar — to ensure that Israel fully complies with its obligations under the agreement.

Despite cautious optimism, observers warn that significant challenges remain. Hamas has so far rejected Israel’s demand that it disarm, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to oppose provisions of the plan supported by several Arab states, particularly those that call for the eventual establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

“The Trump plan achieved what many before it could not — it created a framework that both sides have accepted,” Dr Benzeer said. “For that reason, I call him the man of peace in Gaza.”

While questions persist over the durability of the deal, analysts say it represents a rare moment of diplomatic progress in a region long defined by division and distrust. For Gaza’s residents, weary after years of blockade and bloodshed, the agreement offers a fragile yet genuine sense of hope.