Middle East Expert: Trump's Gaza Deal 'Hanging By A Thread' Amid Hamas Standoff

Trump's Stated Deal with Hamas

• 🗣️ President Trump claimed a deal was made with Hamas for them to "behave" and "be nice," with a threat of eradication if they did not comply.
• 🤝 Steven Witoff and Jared Kushner met with Hamas, an exceptional engagement with a designated terrorist organization, reportedly reaching an agreement for Hamas to abide by Trump's terms.

The Fragile State of the Deal

• ❓ The core question is not whether Hamas will agree in perpetuity, but what happens when Trump perceives they are no longer adhering to the deal.
• 🧵 The deal is described as "hanging on by a thread" and held together by "duct tape" as neither Israel nor Hamas wants to be the one to formally break it with Trump.

Hamas's Actions and Motivations

• ⚠️ Hamas is seen as being on "thinner ice" due to ongoing non-compliance, including refusing to disarm and slow-rolling the return of hostages' bodies.
• 🔪 Hamas is reportedly carrying out "summary executions" and "slaughtering their own people" to demonstrate their continued power and brutality in Gaza.
• ⏳ Hamas is accused of "playing for time" and slow-rolling the return of hostages, but as long as bodies are returned, Trump may remain somewhat satisfied.

The Path Forward and Future Challenges

• 🕊️ The next phase involves Hamas laying down arms and a responsible authority governing Gaza, a scenario deemed "exceedingly difficult."
• 🚧 It is unlikely anyone will govern Gaza until Hamas surrenders, yet Hamas is unlikely to surrender unless forced, creating a significant crossroads.