The Global Story Why Hamas agreed to a ceasefire – but isn’t disarming yet
Oct 13, 2025
Lyse Doucet, BBC Chief International Correspondent with vast experience in Middle Eastern affairs, dissects the recent Gaza ceasefire and the intricate diplomacy that made it happen. She reveals how Trump's influence, coupled with regional tensions like the Qatar bombing, shaped negotiations. Doucet highlights the pivotal Oval Office meetings and the significant role of public sentiment in pushing for a deal. She also addresses the uncertainty of Hamas's future disarmament and the challenges faced by journalists covering the conflict. Unraveling these threads provides a compelling look at a complex situation.
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US Personal Pressure Brokered The Ceasefire
- Donald Trump's team used relentless personal involvement and pressure to broker the Gaza ceasefire quickly.
- Their leverage came from US influence over Israel plus regional buy-in from Arab states.
UN Meetings Created Momentum
- The UN General Assembly meetings helped rally regional and Islamic world leaders around pressing Trump to act.
- That diplomatic chorus convinced Trump he could and should use US leverage to end the Gaza war.
Netanyahu's Public Apology Moment
- The White House scene forced Benjamin Netanyahu to publicly apologise to Qatar in a highly visible moment.
- Lyse Doucet describes the photograph as humiliating for Netanyahu and pivotal in signalling US resolve.