Families of American hostages held by Hamas have highlighted the significant role of President-elect Donald Trump in the recent cease-fire negotiations with Israel. They emphasize the importance of his leadership as they anxiously await the potential release of their loved ones.

Jonathan Dekel-Chen, whose son Sagui is among the hostages, stressed the necessity of Trump's firm stance in facilitating the agreement. Speaking on "Fox & Friends First," Dekel-Chen expressed concern about potential delays and political maneuvering, emphasizing the need for all parties to prioritize the safe return of the hostages.

Dekel-Chen stated, "The strength and insistence of President-elect Trump were critical in reaching the announcement of the hostage deal. Now more than ever, we need continued pressure on all sides to finalize this agreement without political grandstanding or fabricated obstacles." He also expressed worry that the current administration may not be acting in good faith to secure the hostages' release, urging both current and incoming White House officials to prioritize this issue.

Following the initial announcement of a cease-fire deal, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office declared a delay in the Cabinet vote on the agreement, citing Hamas's attempts to renegotiate aspects of the deal at the last minute.

Prior to the cease-fire announcement, Trump issued stern warnings to Hamas, stating there would be severe consequences if the hostages were not released before his inauguration. Dekel-Chen described Trump's intervention as a "turning point" that reinvigorated stalled negotiations. He expressed appreciation for the combined efforts of both incoming Trump officials and outgoing Biden administration officials in working towards a resolution.

While many attributed the progress in negotiations to Trump's involvement, President Biden dismissed a question regarding Trump's role in the cease-fire deal during a White House press conference.

Another parent of a hostage, Ruby Chen, whose son Itay Chen is being held, expressed gratitude for the advocacy of former Sen. Ben Cardin while criticizing the Biden administration's rhetoric as inadequate. Chen emphasized the magnitude of the Hamas attack, highlighting the 47 American lives lost and calling for justice for the victims.

Chen also acknowledged President-elect Trump's invitation to the families of the hostages to attend his inauguration.