Former Secretaries of State Clinton and Rice Praise Trump Administration's Israel-Hamas Peace Deal

Historic Middle East Peace Deal Garners Bipartisan Praise

Former U.S. Secretaries of State Hillary Clinton and Condoleezza Rice have publicly praised the Trump administration's recently brokered peace deal between Israel and Hamas. The agreement, announced by President Trump, marks the 'first phase' of a comprehensive 20-point plan designed to conclude the two-year conflict in the region. Both former top diplomats expressed cautious optimism regarding the deal's prospects during a joint interview with CBS News senior correspondent Norah O'Donnell.

Key Provisions of the Initial Phase

The landmark agreement, which saw a ceasefire go into effect on Friday, October 10, 2025, outlines several critical steps. Under the terms of this initial phase:

• Hamas is committed to releasing all remaining hostages captured during the October 7, 2023 attack, including approximately 20 living individuals and the remains of 28 deceased hostages.
• Israel has agreed to withdraw its military forces from parts of the Gaza Strip.
• A significant exchange of prisoners is anticipated, with Israel expected to free nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees and hand over the bodies of 360 Palestinians.
• A surge of humanitarian aid is slated to enter the ravaged coastal enclave.

President Trump has indicated his intention to travel to the Middle East soon to be present for the return of the hostages.

Clinton and Rice Weigh In on the Agreement

During their discussion, Hillary Clinton lauded the efforts, stating, 'I really commend President Trump and his administration, as well as Arab leaders in the region for making the commitment to the 20-point plan and seeing a path forward for what's often called the day after.' She acknowledged that the path forward would require 'a lot of work' and 'a lot of coordination.' Clinton also highlighted the role of U.S. negotiators, noting they 'took advantage of an opening that was available and were able to be successful.' She further emphasized the need for Israel to cease settlement activity in the West Bank.

Condoleezza Rice, while expressing optimism, remained measured, cautioning that 'No one can be completely confident, given the history of the Middle East.' She suggested that a two-state solution might not be immediately feasible but stressed the importance of Palestinians preparing for a future state through reforms and by recognizing Israel's existence.

International and Regional Context

The deal was brokered with assistance from regional partners including Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey. U.S. negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were instrumental in assembling the 20-point peace plan, which also includes provisions for Israeli security guarantees, the demilitarization of Gaza, and a new civilian governing authority. While the agreement has been met with a 'powerful sense of relief' in Israel, some critics warn that this initial phase may not fully resolve the protracted conflict.