U.S. President Donald Trump embarked on a rapid journey to the Middle East on Monday to solidify the conclusion of the conflict between Israel and Hamas and to reiterate his efforts towards peace between the two parties. His itinerary included visits to the Israeli Knesset in Jerusalem and attendance at a global summit in Egypt, coinciding with a prisoner and hostage exchange between Hamas and Israel as part of the ceasefire agreement that halted the violent clashes. The day was marked by jubilation, relief, and some skepticism.
During his visit to Israel, Trump commended the U.S.-brokered ceasefire with Hamas, delivering a speech at the Knesset where he described the day as “a new dawn for the Middle East.” Israeli lawmakers enthusiastically chanted Trump’s name and accorded him multiple standing ovations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lauded Trump as “the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House,” pledging continued collaboration towards peace.
Subsequently, Trump proceeded to Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt, where he met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi ahead of a global summit. At the summit, Trump, alongside mediators, formally signed a document concluding the conflict in Gaza. Trump praised Egypt for its crucial role in the ceasefire negotiations, especially concerning Hamas.
Representatives from nearly three dozen countries participated in the international summit, where Trump, el-Sisi, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani signed the agreement aimed at shaping Gaza’s future. Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney were also present at the event.
As the ceasefire deal unfolds, concerns linger about the challenges ahead, including the reconstruction of Gaza, governance post-war, and Hamas disarmament. While the initial phase of Trump’s plan involves a humanitarian aid surge and partial Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza’s main cities, many details remain unresolved. Negotiations on these critical issues could face obstacles, potentially leading to a breakdown and the resumption of military actions by Israel.
The release of hostages and prisoners was met with jubilation across various regions, with cheering crowds welcoming the freed individuals. The day was a mix of celebratory moments and uncertainties, highlighting the complex road ahead towards lasting peace in the region.