MUSCAT: Former U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that “great progress” is being made on efforts to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. While not currently in office, Trump’s remarks have drawn attention amid growing international calls for an end to the months-long conflict between Israel and Hamas. He praised diplomatic channels working to de-escalate tensions and stressed the urgency of stopping the humanitarian crisis affecting thousands of civilians in the region.
Speaking during a press appearance, Trump said that backchannel negotiations and international mediation have created a pathway for potential resolution, though he did not elaborate on the exact role he or his team might be playing. Trump emphasized that all parties involved must prioritize civilian safety and long-term stability over political gains. He highlighted the need for a sustainable peace framework that addresses the root causes of the violence.
The former president also criticized what he called a “lack of decisive leadership” in the current U.S. administration, suggesting that stronger diplomatic pressure could have expedited the peace process. He positioned his statement as part of a broader foreign policy vision, recalling past achievements in brokering normalization deals between Israel and Arab states. Trump reiterated that firm yet balanced negotiation tactics could still yield results even in the current volatile climate.
While his statements have not been confirmed or supported by official U.S. diplomatic sources, they have stirred debate among analysts and international observers. Some see his remarks as politically motivated ahead of the U.S. election season, while others believe they reflect his ongoing interest in shaping Middle East policy. The situation on the ground in Gaza remains tense, and the timeline for any ceasefire remains uncertain.
