In the aftermath of Donald Trump's reelection, Hamas has urged for an end to the escalating conflict with Israel and seeks assistance in establishing Palestinian statehood.
Newsweek reported that as geopolitical dynamics shift with Donald Trump reclaiming the U.S. presidency, Basem Naim of the Hamas Political Bureau has responded by advocating for an immediate halt to Israel's military operations in Gaza.
His statement underscores a pronounced urgency for Palestinian rights to self-determination, with Jerusalem poised as their capital.
Historically, the tension between Israel and Hamas intensified starting in October 2023, leading to an upsurge in military aggression. Naim’s call mirrors a broader plea for peace and an end to what he describes as “blind support” for Israel’s actions in the region.
Alongside Trump’s victory, his past actions, including the controversial relocation of the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem and the presentation of a Middle East peace proposal largely rebuffed by the Arab community, are once again in the spotlight. Trump’s success rekindles discussions on U.S. foreign policy and its implications for the Middle East.
In his victory speech, Trump emphasized his approach to avoid military interventions, highlighting his previous term’s lack of new wars and the quick dismantling of ISIS.
This stance, according to Trump, is consistent with his administration's goal to halt wars rather than start them.
Netanyahu’s immediate reaction to Trump's victory was positive, marking it as a moment to reinforce the close alliance between the U.S. and Israel.
He shared highlights from a friendly dialogue with Trump that touched upon mutual security concerns, including the threat from Iran.
Conversely, an Israeli official expressed optimism about maintaining the special relationship between the U.S. and Israel, looking forward to collaborating to foster a more peaceful and prosperous Middle East with Trump's administration.
While Hamas demands cessation, the U.S.-Israel strategic partnership is posited to continue robustly as indicated by both Israeli remarks and the confidence expressed by American officials. Vice President Kamala Harris, albeit supporting the ongoing arms sales to Israel, has also advocated for a solution fostering peace in the region.
Trump’s earlier Middle East policies, including the Abraham Accords, highlighted his administration's inclination towards diplomatic engagements.
However, with the war still ongoing, Trump has critiqued Biden’s handling of international relations, especially regarding Iran, suggesting that the current conflicts might have been avoided under his leadership.
Statements from Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas following the U.S. election also manifest a longing for peace.
Abbas congratulated Trump, expressing confidence in Trump's leadership to support Palestinian aspirations for statehood, grounded in international norms and law.