In its first week in office, the Trump administration has significantly strengthened Israel’s negotiating position against Hamas and Hezbollah, two Iranian-backed terrorist organizations responsible for the failed war against Israel in October 2023.On Sunday, Hamas conceded to disclose the number of hostages—18 out of 33—who are alive and slated for release in the initial phase of a negotiated deal, though it did not specify their identities. Hamas also shared a full list of the 33 hostages to be freed, while 65 hostages, both living and deceased, are set to remain in captivity until later stages of the agreement. Additionally, Hamas agreed to release American-Israeli hostage Keith Siegel, along with Israeli women Arbel Yehud and Agam Berger, on Thursday.In another development, Lebanon approved an extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. This extension, sought by Israel, allows continued dismantling of Hezbollah’s operations in southern Lebanon. Although the Trump administration was initially thought to favor Israel’s complete withdrawal from Lebanon, it supported the extension until February 18, providing Israel with three additional weeks to fortify its borders.President Trump also introduced the controversial proposal of relocating some Palestinians from Gaza to neighboring Arab countries, a concept that has long been rejected by Arab nations but which he argued could reduce the likelihood of future conflicts in Gaza.On his first day in office, Trump further reinforced U.S.-Israel ties by signing a series of pro-Israel executive orders, including reversing sanctions imposed by the Biden administration on certain right-wing Israeli figures and organizations, signaling robust support for Israel’s interests.