WASHINGTON — Former National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan reluctantly acknowledged President Trump for successfully securing a peace deal between Israel and Hamas, a breakthrough that had eluded former President Joe Biden.
Sullivan argued that “time and circumstance” played a pivotal role in Trump’s achievement and suggested that the framework of the agreement resonated with the proposals the previous administration had intended for ceasing hostilities in the region.
“It’s taken until now, after so much time, before we’ve arrived at a deal,” Sullivan remarked during his interview on CNN’s “State of the Union” on Sunday, when he was questioned about Biden’s inability to achieve the same.
“In April and May, June, July, August, September — nothing transpired,” he elaborated. “This is also a matter for the Trump administration to reflect on, considering they’ve held power for a significant stretch now.”
Last Wednesday, Hamas consented to a peace framework that Trump had advocated for, with the Israeli cabinet formally giving its approval the following day. Trump had revealed his 20-point peace plan on September 29.
Sullivan had been instrumental in the Biden administration’s approaches to resolve the conflict. His former position is now held by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
“I’m still waiting, as I want to ensure that those families reunite with the hostages who have endured severe hardship for nearly two years,” Sullivan remarked regarding the agreement.
“I’m feeling optimistic today, but I won’t feel entirely at ease until it’s fully implemented,” he added.
Hamas is anticipated to release the 20 living hostages by Monday, with a significant influx of humanitarian aid expected to arrive in Gaza around the same period.
Trump is scheduled to arrive in Israel on Monday, where he will speak to the Knesset before proceeding to Egypt to commemorate this diplomatic advancement.
Sullivan navigated most of the interview without attributing credit to Trump independently. However, after prompting by host Dana Bash regarding Trump’s contributions, Sullivan conceded that Trump deserved recognition.
“I credit President Trump, as well as [special envoy Steve] Witkoff and [Jared] Kushner and Rubio. These roles are significant and challenging,” Sullivan stated.
“The key question is whether we can ensure that this framework endures moving forward,” he continued.
Sullivan also indicated that the peace initiative is not substantially distinct from what the Biden administration had envisioned.
“In principle, it’s quite comparable. Hamas cannot continue to hold power. We require rebuilding efforts in Gaza funded by the international community, including the Gulf states,” he articulated. “An interim governance structure is essential. Strong backing from Arab nations is also needed.”
“These elements have been part of our conversation for a considerable time now,” he added. “One significant difference, obviously, is the evolving circumstances.”
