Witkoff credits Trump for Mideast truce, says administration will ‘expand the circle of peace’

Jacob Magid is The Times of Israel's US bureau chief

Real estate developer Steve Witkoff speaks at US President-elect Donald Trump's Victory Rally at the Capital One Arena on January 19, 2025 in Washington, DC. (SCOTT OLSON / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)
Real estate developer Steve Witkoff speaks at US President-elect Donald Trump's Victory Rally at the Capital One Arena on January 19, 2025 in Washington, DC. (SCOTT OLSON / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)

Fresh off successfully brokering a ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas in Qatar, incoming US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff tells a Washington rally of Donald Trump supporters on the eve of the inauguration that the deal wouldn’t have been possible without the involvement of the US president-elect.

“I just received on my phone pictures of the first three hostages who were released,” Witkoff says, holding up his phone amid roars from the crowd.

Real estate developer Steve Witkoff speaks at US President-elect Donald Trump’s Victory Rally at the Capital One Arena on January 19, 2025 in Washington, DC. (SCOTT OLSON / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)

“We had a great team, but it doesn’t happen without Donald J. Trump,” he asserts. “The president was responsible for this release, and we all owe him a debt of gratitude, as do all the families.”

“His leadership extends beyond our borders, influencing the world in ways that reflect the best of our ideals,” Witkoff continues, pointing to the Abraham Accords that were negotiated during Trump’s first term. “The accords are a testament to the president’s belief that peace is achievable when we approach challenges with strength, clarity and a shared vision for the future.”

“The Middle East is home to extraordinary potential, and through President Trump’s leadership, we are unlocking that potential in ways that benefit the region and the entire world,” Witkoff says.

“The Abraham Accords are not just agreements. They are a blueprint for a future where peace is not the exception, but is the expectation,” he asserts.

“As we look ahead, the challenges remain significant, but so do the opportunities. Under your leadership, Mr. President, we will continue to expand the circle of peace, strengthen partnerships and promote prosperity across the world,” Witkoff says.

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