JERUSALEM — President Donald Trump delivered a historic address to Israel’s parliament on Monday, celebrating the release of 20 hostages and the signing of a ceasefire deal that aims to end the war between Israel and Hamas.
“This is the historic dawn of a new Middle East,” Trump told the Knesset, calling the day “the moment that everything began to change.” He praised the truce as a turning point for both Israelis and Palestinians, describing it as the end of a “long and painful nightmare.”
The agreement, brokered by Trump’s administration, includes a phased release of hostages taken during Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack and the freeing of Palestinian prisoners. Officials confirmed the first exchanges took place earlier Monday.
“Israel Has Won All It Can by Force of Arms”
Trump declared the war “over,” though analysts cautioned that deep divisions and logistical hurdles remain. He urged Israelis to now focus on rebuilding and reconciliation, saying, “Israel, with our help, has won all that they can by force of arms. You’ve won.”
“Now it’s time to translate these victories on the battlefield into the ultimate prize of peace and prosperity for the entire Middle East,” Trump added.
His remarks drew thunderous applause from lawmakers and spectators, many of whom wore “Trump the Peace President” hats in a display of support.
Warm Reception, Brief Protest
Despite a brief disruption by Arab-Israeli lawmakers Ayman Udah and Ofir Kassif, who raised a banner reading “genocide” before being escorted out, Trump’s reception remained overwhelmingly positive.
The Speaker of the Knesset introduced Trump as “the best friend Israel has ever had” in the White House — a statement later echoed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
“No American president has ever done more for Israel,” Netanyahu said, crediting Trump with “changing everything overnight” after his 2016 election.
U.S. Inflation Rises Amid Tariffs, Consumer Prices, and Federal Reserve Concerns
Netanyahu Praises Trump’s Leadership
Netanyahu commended Trump’s “pivotal leadership” in securing the deal and expanding regional peace.
“Mr. President, today we welcome you here to thank you for your proposal that brought our hostages home, ended the war, and opened the door to historic peace,” he said.
In a symbolic gesture, Netanyahu announced Trump’s nomination for the Israel Prize, the nation’s highest civilian honor. The Speaker of the Knesset added that he would also nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize next year.
A Surprise Plea for Netanyahu
In an unscripted moment, Trump called on Israeli President Isaac Herzog to pardon Netanyahu, who remains on trial for corruption charges.
“That was not in the speech,” Trump admitted, “but I happen to like this gentleman right over here, and it just seems to make so much sense.” His remark drew extended applause from the chamber.
Trump also described how he convinced Netanyahu to agree to the ceasefire, telling him, “Bibi, you’re going to be remembered for this far more than if you kept this thing going. You’ve won — now rebuild Israel and make it stronger and better than ever.”
War Toll and Uncertain Path Ahead
According to the Gaza Health Ministry, over 67,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict began, while more than 1,200 Israelis died in the October 7 Hamas attack that triggered the war. Roughly 250 hostages were taken; the fate of some remains unknown.
Trump’s speech capped a day of intense diplomatic activity. Attending the address were Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner, White House special envoy Steve Witkoff, and U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. Senior administration officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, were also present.
Trump Heads to Egypt for “Peace Summit”
Following the address, Trump departed for Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, to attend an international peace summit with more than 20 world leaders. The summit is expected to focus on the reconstruction of Gaza and the establishment of a long-term regional security framework.
Netanyahu, though invited, declined to attend due to an upcoming Jewish holiday. His office released a statement thanking Trump “for his efforts to expand the circle of peace — peace through strength.”
Sources:
The Guardian
Time Magazine
