Donald Trump received a warm reception during his speech at the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset. The lawmakers greeted him with a standing ovation, to which he responded positively, remarking on the impressive venue. This address marked the first by a US President since 2008, underscoring its significance. Despite some disruptions from left-wing members advocating for Palestinian recognition, Trump remained focused on his vision of a new era in the Middle East characterized by peace and prosperity.
During his speech, Trump diverged from conventional topics, taking jabs at former Democratic leaders and discussing unconventional ideas like renaming the Department of Defence. He highlighted his efforts to end conflicts, emphasizing his approach to preventing wars. Touching briefly on Iran, he expressed a desire for peace agreements but stressed prioritizing relations with Russia.
Affirming America’s alliance with Israel, Trump reiterated the commitment to stand by them with the pledge of “Never forget and never again.” He praised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, acknowledging the challenges in dealing with him but commending his leadership qualities.
In an unexpected move, Trump suggested Israel’s President pardon Netanyahu from potential corruption charges, showcasing his disregard for diplomatic norms. Despite his self-proclaimed role as a peacemaker, concerns remain about his consistency and long-term engagement in the peace process.
The path to lasting peace in the region faces numerous hurdles, with ongoing uncertainties about Trump’s role and commitment.
