A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has been reached, marking a significant development in the Middle East. The announcement comes shortly after the second anniversary of the October 7th attack, which resulted in widespread violence and loss of life.
The ceasefire is seen as a result of strong U.S. support for Israel under the Trump administration. President Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff were recognized for their roles in facilitating this agreement. Former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee, now serving as ambassador, was also acknowledged for his involvement. President Trump praised Huckabee’s efforts, and Huckabee attended the president’s address to Israel’s parliament during the culmination of the first phase of the agreement.
Senator John Boozman expressed appreciation for these efforts: “All Americans can be grateful for that leadership. I applaud the president, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and all who worked tirelessly to achieve this progress.”
Boozman highlighted Huckabee’s contribution: “Here in The Natural State, there is a particular point of pride as our own former governor, Mike Huckabee, played an important role in what he called an ‘incredible triumph.’ President Trump has publicly praised his efforts and Ambassador Huckabee attended the president’s address to Israel’s parliament to celebrate the culmination of the first phase of the agreement.”
He further noted: “Less than a year into his ambassadorship, Mike Huckabee is uniquely bolstering the relationship between our nations. That was my expectation and belief when the Senate confirmed him earlier this year, and he is meeting the moment.”
Senator Boozman reiterated his support for Israel throughout recent conflicts: “Throughout this brutal war – and in a world where Israel is under threat of constant attack – I have remained a staunch advocate for our greatest friend in the Middle East. I have joined my Senate colleagues to condemn Hamas’ extensive record of terrorist activity and the deliberate, inhumane use of rape and sexual violence as a weapon of war. I also joined my colleagues in calling on the United Nations (UN) to formally designate it as a terrorist organization and helped introduce legislation to halt U.S. funding to UN agencies that sought to punish Israel’s right to self-defense.”
The ceasefire led to positive outcomes such as returning living Israeli hostages home: “Thankfully, the ceasefire secured a joyous homecoming for the final living Israeli hostages, whose families and loved ones have long awaited their return.” However, Boozman acknowledged ongoing grief over those lost since October 2023.
“As part of the ceasefire,” Boozman stated, “Hamas must return the remains of deceased hostages as a gesture of basic human decency. Only after these families have the chance to grieve and properly bury these victims can the framework move to the next phase.”
He emphasized that continued conflict benefits no one: “By now it should be clear that nobody benefits from this continued cycle of hostility, terrorism and radical ideology toward Israel. Nations do not flourish when violence becomes the preferred tool to resolve conflict. The results, as we have seen, abuse human life and write it off as expendable.”
Boozman argued that eliminating Hamas is necessary for lasting stability: “Permanently eliminating the threat of Hamas is the only path forward for any significant long-term regional stability. On that, much of the world agrees.”
He concluded by urging adherence by all parties: “But peace is only possible if the aggressor that started this war when it launched the October 7 attacks, Hamas, adheres to the agreement. The contours of this deal, which has support from key Arab nations prioritize the safety of Israelis and offer a life for Gaza’s residents free from radical oppressive terror.”
Congress plans ongoing cooperation with administration officials on humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza.
“This development is an encouraging step forward and I am pleased we have reached this critical juncture,” Boozman said. “It is time for this war to end and Israel’s security to be assured.”
