U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican, revealed in an interview with the Israeli news site “Walla” that President-elect Donald Trump wishes to see a prisoner release deal and a ceasefire in Gaza before he assumes office on January 20, 2025.
Graham stated that Trump wants the public in Israel and the Middle East to know that the President-elect supports a ceasefire that includes a prisoner release agreement, and “he wants to see this happen now.”
He emphasized that this deal would be pivotal for Trump before entering the White House, clarifying that Israeli intelligence believes that half of the prisoners are still alive.
Foreign Policy Priorities
Graham, who is close to Trump and regularly discusses foreign policy issues—especially those related to the Middle East—added that this deal would allow Trump to focus on other foreign policy priorities in the region, such as achieving a historic peace agreement between Israel and Arab states, and forming a regional coalition against Iran.
He noted that Trump and President Joe Biden discussed the prisoner release deal and a ceasefire in Gaza during a meeting at the White House two weeks ago. The topic was also discussed among the national security advisors of both presidents, Jake Sullivan for Biden and Michael McFaul for Trump.
Graham mentioned that he hopes Trump will work with the Biden administration during the transition period to resolve the crisis in Gaza and achieve the desired deal. He stated, “We hope we can work together to achieve a ceasefire and the return of prisoners to their homes.”
Peaceful Solutions
In a different context, Graham pointed out that some figures in the Israeli government, like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, are proposing “extreme options” such as reoccupying Gaza, which Trump does not support. Graham remarked that Smotrich should consult with Trump before making such decisions.
He affirmed that it would be better for everyone to collaborate in finding peaceful solutions rather than escalating military conflict.
Graham added that the current tensions in Gaza could lead to significant changes in Israeli politics and regional relations.
He concluded, “The challenges we face today require everyone to think of innovative solutions; Trump is ready to do what is necessary for peace and stability in the region.”
