Trump Receives Warm Reception in Israel Amid Hostage Release Celebration
On Monday, President Donald Trump expressed his gratitude for the enthusiastic welcome he received from Israel’s parliament. The event marked the celebration of the release of 20 surviving Hamas prisoners.
“After two long years filled with darkness and captivity, 20 courageous hostages are finally back with their families,” Trump remarked. “And, twenty-eight more loved ones will soon return home to find peace in this sacred land. Today, after years of conflict and danger, the skies are calm, gunfire has faded, and sirens are silent as the sun rises over a land that is at last at peace.”
During this visit, Trump was honored in the Knesset, which referred to him as “the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House.” Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana announced plans to join House Speaker Mike Johnson and other legislative leaders worldwide in supporting Trump’s candidacy for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize.
“You, President Trump, are a monumental figure etched in the pages of history. Generations from now, the Jewish people will remember your contributions. Our nation honors its history,” Ohana stated, comparing Trump to Cyrus the Great, who allowed the Jews to return to their homeland after conquering Babylon in 539 B.C.
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Ohana credited Trump for his role in the rescue of hostages held by Hamas, as well as his efforts against Iran’s nuclear ambitions in the Middle East. He also lauded Trump for relocating the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in 2018.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu joined in praising Trump, declaring him the most supportive American president in Israel’s history. “No other president has achieved as much for Israel. As I mentioned in Washington, nothing else compares,” Netanyahu said.
Additionally, Netanyahu announced that Trump would receive the Israel Prize, the nation’s highest honor, making him the first non-Israeli to be bestowed with the award.
This story is still developing. Please check back for updates.
