The Biden administration has worked closely with President-elect Donald Trump's incoming team to broker a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah set to take effect early Wednesday. The outgoing Democratic administration kept Trump's team informed of its efforts, leading to a rare moment of cooperation amidst a transition period marked by tension.
Trump's team wasted no time claiming credit for the positive development, with Rep. Mike Waltz attributing the progress to President Trump's leadership. The ceasefire agreement, seen as a critical step by President Biden, aims to bring a permanent end to hostilities and prevent future threats to Israel's security.
White House officials are optimistic that the calm in Lebanon will pave the way for broader peace efforts in the Middle East, particularly in resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Biden plans to engage with key regional players like Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey to advance talks on Gaza and potentially revive discussions on an Israel-Saudi normalization deal.
Despite the success of the ceasefire agreement, the looming transition to the Trump administration remains a significant factor. Trump's senior national security team was briefed on the negotiations, although not directly involved, indicating a level of continuity in U.S. foreign policy.
The involvement of Iran, Hezbollah's main supporter, in the ceasefire deal underscores the complex dynamics at play in the region. Analysts suggest that Iran may be recalibrating its strategy in anticipation of Trump's return to power, signaling a potential shift in regional dynamics.
The Biden administration remains cautiously optimistic about the prospects for peace in the Middle East, acknowledging the challenges posed by recent conflicts and the need for sustained diplomatic efforts. The coordination between the outgoing and incoming administrations reflects a commitment to continuity and stability in U.S. foreign policy.
