WASHINGTON — Former President Trump announced on Friday his intention to address Israel’s Knesset before heading to Cairo, coinciding with the release of the final 20 hostages held by Hamas.
“I’ll be visiting Israel to speak at the Knesset early in my trip, and then I’ll move on to Egypt. They’ve been excellent,” Trump remarked to reporters at the White House.
Trump will be present in the region at the time Hamas is set to release the last captives taken during the surprise attack on October 7, 2023, which ignited the ongoing conflict.
The president is anticipated to engage in a ceremonial signing of a peace agreement in Egypt, marking the commencement of his comprehensive 20-point peace plan.
“Gaza is set for reconstruction,” Trump stated, alluding to expected funding from affluent Arab states.
The president also emphasized his role in overseeing the rebuilding of the densely populated Gaza region, expressing his commitment as the head of a proposed “Board of Peace” that will supervise the upcoming transitional Palestinian government.
“We’re in the process of establishing a Board of Peace,” Trump informed the media.
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“It’s called the Board of Peace. Though the title may evolve, the term ‘peace’ will definitely remain. They’ve invited me to lead it, and I’ll ensure everything proceeds smoothly,” he added.
The initial phase of Trump’s peace effort, which has received approval from both Israel and Hamas, includes a ceasefire and the first step of three planned Israeli military withdrawals, in addition to the hostage handover.
The U.S. military is currently assisting in logistical operations for an emerging international peacekeeping force in Gaza, which is expected to involve troops from Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and potentially the UAE.
“They’re all weary of the fighting,” Trump remarked prior to his journey.
“Let’s not forget, October 7 was a dreadful day with 1,200 fatalities, but Hamas has suffered losses amounting to 58,000 lives. That’s significant retribution,” he commented.
Trump proudly highlighted that both Russia and Iran have expressed support for his peace initiative, while noting the celebratory reactions among the residents of Arab nations.
He claimed that the deal with Hamas was achieved because “I took a firm stance… they understood that retribution would be severe and unsustainable… It would have meant total destruction.”
On a concluding note, Trump indicated his plans to return to the White House on Tuesday to present the late Charlie Kirk with a posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom.
