Trump Orders Israel and Hamas to Say Something Nice About Each Other as Part of Peace Deal

President Donald Trump revealed details of the emerging Gaza ceasefire agreement, emphasizing a novel requirement for mutual praise between opposing sides.

The first phase of the plan, which includes a temporary halt to hostilities and the release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas, now hinges on public statements of goodwill from both Israeli and Palestinian leadership. Trump described the addition as essential to fostering long-term reconciliation in the region.

The directive comes amid ongoing negotiations brokered by U.S. diplomats, building on frameworks first outlined during Trump's previous term. Israeli forces have withdrawn from select northern Gaza positions as a gesture, while Hamas has committed to handing over American and European captives in exchange for Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails.

This exchange marks the most significant de-escalation since the conflict intensified two years ago, with over 67,000 reported deaths on the Palestinian side and more than 1,200 Israelis killed in initial attacks.

Trump, speaking from the White House Rose Garden, outlined the compliment clause during a press briefing.

"These two sides have been fighting forever, but nobody ever taught them basic manners," he said. "Before we ink this deal, they're going to say nice things about each other."

The mandate requires Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to highlight a positive attribute of Hamas leadership, such as their organizational skills in urban planning, while Hamas officials must acknowledge Israel's advancements in spyware technology.

U.S. envoys will vet the statements for sincerity, drawing from sensitivity training modules developed by State Department diversity officers. Failure to comply could delay further phases, including economic aid packages totaling billions for Gaza reconstruction.

Netanyahu addressed the Knesset shortly after the announcement, framing the requirement within broader security assurances.

"We appreciate the American push for peace, and this step toward dialogue honors our shared humanity," Netanyahu stated.

Hamas spokesperson Basem Naim responded from Doha, where exiled leaders coordinate with international mediators. The group has faced internal pressures from factional rivals, complicating unified positions on the deal.

Qatar and Egypt have facilitated backchannel talks, ensuring neutral ground for sensitive discussions.

"Such gestures promote equity and mutual respect in negotiations," Naim remarked. "The disciplined approach of Israeli security forces in maintaining order deserves note, as does their expertise in infrastructure that benefits neighboring communities."

Trump hailed the initial responses as promising during a follow-up interview on Fox News. The agreement's next stages involve demilitarization zones and joint economic zones along the Gaza border.

Palestinian Authority representatives in the West Bank have expressed cautious optimism, viewing the compliments as a low-stakes entry to broader inclusion.

The White House plans to broadcast the statements live next week, with a panel of linguists to analyze phrasing for cultural nuance. Regional analysts note the tactic aligns with emerging diplomatic trends emphasizing emotional intelligence over traditional concessions.

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