Overview

• The U.S.-brokered first phase linked major hostage releases to Israeli force repositioning and was showcased with a 20-point framework at a leaders’ gathering in Sharm el-Sheikh.
• The column argues the diplomatic win legitimizes an authoritarian governing style and grants Trump greater latitude to go after opponents domestically.
• The piece cites plaudits from unexpected voices, including late-night hosts, and claims Venezuelan politician María Corina Machado dedicated a Nobel Peace Prize to Trump.
• The analysis warns confrontations with the press and perceived enemies could intensify, referencing Trump and Vice-President J. Vance shunning ABC News after a question about Tom Homan.
• Reporting continues to flag unresolved implementation issues, including Hamas disarmament, Gaza governance, reconstruction funding and verification of compliance.