• The Gaza cease-fire deal was developed through an unlikely partnership between President Biden and President-elect Trump.
• This agreement aims to halt the ongoing violence in Gaza and secure the release of hostages held for 15 months.
• The cease-fire is set to commence on Sunday, just before Biden transfers the presidency to Trump.
• Both leaders have distinct motivations for resolving the conflict prior to Inauguration Day.
• The announcement sparked a debate over credit for the deal amidst their traditional rivalry.

The much-anticipated Gaza cease-fire agreement, announced on Wednesday, marks a unique collaboration between President Biden and President-elect Donald J. Trump, putting aside their long-standing animosity to achieve a significant diplomatic objective. The two leaders instructed their respective advisers to collaboratively negotiate a cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hamas, aiming to end the violence that has devastated Gaza and facilitate the release of hostages held there for an extended period. The cease-fire is scheduled to take effect on Sunday, coinciding with the day before Biden officially hands over the presidency to Trump.

Each president has personal stakes in securing this deal ahead of the transition. For Biden, achieving a cease-fire would represent a crucial final success during his administration, potentially concluding what has been described as the deadliest conflict in Israeli-Palestinian history, while also liberating both American and Israeli prisoners. Conversely, for Trump, this agreement alleviates a major issue, allowing him to focus on other priorities as he embarks on his second term.

This unusual collaboration five days before the presidential power shift contrasts sharply with the typical norm in Washington, where presidents from opposing parties seldom work together during transitions, even amid crises. The announcement, however, quickly spurred discussions on who should receive credit for the deal. While Biden awaited formal updates from the region, Trump prematurely disclosed the agreement through a social media post declaring, “This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November.” In contrast, Biden, during his subsequent address, praised the unity in negotiation but was less than pleased to be asked about credit, responding pointedly, “Is that a joke?”

For further details, you can read the full article on the New York Times.