President Donald Trump has touched down in Israel to engage with families of hostages recently freed, following Hamas’s initial release of captives under a trump-meeting-fight-longer/” title=”… Predicts Meeting with Putin and Zelensky, But Says Conflict May Continue a Bit Longer First”>ceasefire brokered by the United States.
Arriving at Ben Gurion International Airport at 9:45 a.m. local time, Trump was welcomed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog.
Addressing the press aboard Air Force One, Trump took pride in his involvement in securing the ceasefire, describing scenes of jubilation across the region. When questioned about a recent incident where Netanyahu faced boos from a crowd in Israel on October 11, Trump dismissed it, emphasizing widespread celebration.
“Joy is universal-whether among Jews, Muslims, or Arab nations, people are celebrating openly,” Trump remarked. “This moment is unprecedented; nothing like it has been witnessed in three millennia.”
Israel extended a grand reception for the U.S. president, who briefly exchanged greetings with Israeli dignitaries on the runway as a military band performed, before departing in a prominent motorcade.
During his visit, Trump is scheduled to meet with hostage families alongside Netanyahu at the Knesset, followed by an address to the Israeli parliament before departing early Monday afternoon.
His speech is anticipated to be met with enthusiastic support; ahead of the event, red caps emblazoned with “TRUMP THE PEACE PRESIDENT” in a style reminiscent of MAGA hats were distributed, according to POLITICO.
President Isaac Herzog announced that Trump will receive Israel’s highest civilian accolade later this year in recognition of his efforts.
Later on Monday, Trump will co-chair a peace summit in Sharm el-Sheikh with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, hosting over 20 global leaders.
This diplomatic visit coincides with Hamas’s announcement on Monday that all living hostages have been released, fulfilling terms of a fragile ceasefire agreement reached with Israel last week.
Trump praised the advancement toward peace during his journey to Israel, though he acknowledged that some details and subsequent phases remain to be finalized.
He revealed plans to swiftly establish a governing “Board of Peace” for Gaza to oversee the region’s transition.
Additionally, Trump discussed the potential involvement of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair in supervising Gaza’s transitional government.
“My first priority is to determine whether Tony would be widely accepted,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. “I have always respected Tony, but it’s important to ensure he is a suitable choice for all parties.”
“The conflict is concluded,” Trump declared while en route from Washington to Israel on Sunday. When asked about the future of the region, he expressed optimism: “I believe normalization is on the horizon.”
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