UPDATE: President Donald Trump just declared a “historic dawn of a new Middle East” during a momentous address to the Knesset on Monday, following the reunion of all living hostages with their families. This pivotal speech comes after the release of 20 hostages by Hamas, who were handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza earlier today.
The atmosphere in the Knesset was electric as Trump received multiple standing ovations throughout his remarks, which lasted over an hour. He emphasized the significance of this moment, stating, “Today, the skies are calm, the guns are silent… a land and a region that will live, God willing, in peace for all eternity.”
In a deeply emotional moment, Trump highlighted the harrowing journey of the hostages, who returned home after more than two years of captivity. “After two harrowing years in darkness and captivity, 20 courageous hostages are returning to the glorious embrace of their families,” he said. The release marks a turning point following Hamas’s deadly attack on October 7, 2023.
Trump praised special Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff for his crucial role in negotiating the peace deal, calling him a “brilliant” negotiator. “Steve started this all by himself… I call him Henry Kissinger who doesn’t leak,” Trump said, drawing laughter and applause from lawmakers.
However, the event was not without controversy. Two Israeli lawmakers who interrupted Trump’s speech with signs reading “Recognize Palestine” were quickly ejected from the parliament. Trump took the opportunity to address criticism, stating, “Everyone thought I was going to be brutal… No, my personality actually is all about stopping wars.”
In a surprising twist, Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State and long-time Trump critic, commended the peace deal in a recent interview, calling it “a significant step.”
Trump also made a bold suggestion during his speech, calling on Israeli President Isaac Herzog to pardon former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has faced corruption charges. “Why don’t you give him a pardon?” Trump asked, adding that it “just seems to make so much sense.”
The president’s remarks came during a critical time, as Netanyahu’s offensive in Gaza faced severe international scrutiny for its humanitarian impact. Trump urged Israel to shift focus from conflict to reconstruction, stating, “We’ve won, and now let’s rebuild our lives.”
As the situation continues to develop, Trump is set to travel to Egypt for a peace signing ceremony, marking another significant step in the ongoing diplomatic efforts in the region.
This moment in history is shaping up to be remembered for generations, with Trump asserting it could usher in a “golden age of Israel and the Middle East.”
Stay tuned for more live updates as this story unfolds.
