During a recent address at the Israeli parliament, U.S. President Donald Trump praised the removal of protesters as “efficient.” The event took place on a significant day, shortly after Hamas released the last 20 hostages from Gaza. In exchange, Israel commenced the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners as part of a cease-fire agreement.
Incident During Speech
While Trump was speaking at the Knesset, two left-wing lawmakers, Aymen Odeh and Ofer Cassif, were ejected. They are members of a joint Palestinian-Israeli political party and held signs saying, “Recognize Palestine.” Security personnel promptly intervened, leading to their removal as Trump observed from the podium.
Reactions and Applause
The incident did not disrupt the speech for long. Other parliamentarians responded with applause as the Knesset speaker apologized to Trump for the interruption. Trump jokingly remarked on the efficiency of the removal, prompting further applause and chants of “Trump” from the audience.
Commending Peace Efforts
In his speech, Trump praised his special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, and his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, for their roles in brokering the Gaza cease-fire deal. Trump likened Witkoff to the legendary negotiator Henry Kissinger, noting that he is “Henry Kissinger who doesn’t leak.”
Message of Hope
Trump characterized the ceasefire as the beginning of a “historic dawn of a new Middle East.” He emphasized the transition from years of conflict to a hopeful future. “Today the skies are calm, the guns are silent, and the sun rises on a holy land that is finally at peace,” he stated.
- Event: Speech at Israeli Parliament
- Key Figures: Donald Trump, Aymen Odeh, Ofer Cassif, Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner
- Historical Context: Release of 20 Hamas hostages and nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners
- Audience Reaction: Applause post-interruption
- Theme: Hope for peace in the Middle East
This speech by Trump underscores not only the political dynamics at play but also the broader quest for peace in the region. The efficient response to protests reflects the tense political environment within the Knesset as new pathways toward diplomacy open up.
