Parliament Speaker’s Warm Welcome for Trump

On Monday, Israel’s Parliament Speaker Amir Ohana greeted U.S. President Donald Trump, declaring him “the best friend Israel has ever had in the White House.”

Beginning his address in Hebrew, Ohana switched to English to acknowledge various Cabinet members and U.S. military officials present. He extended a special mention to Ron Dermer, the American-born Israeli advisor who was instrumental in the Netanyahu administration’s negotiations, as well as U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump were also recognized for their renewed involvement as discussions with the wider Arab world become more significant.

Ohana referred to U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee as his “favorite rock star,” and similarly praised Ekiel Leiter, the Israeli ambassador to the U.S. Returning to Hebrew, he lauded Israeli leaders, including IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, Mossad Director David Balnea, and Gal Hirsch, who is in charge of hostage negotiations.

Reflecting on President Trump’s achievements, Ohana mentioned the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, the relocation of the U.S. embassy, the signing of the Abraham Accords, and confronting Iran regarding its nuclear capabilities.

He described Trump’s foreign policy as being clear, stating, “America first, but not just America.”

Ohana portrayed Trump not merely as an American president but as a pivotal figure in Jewish history, drawing a comparison to the ancient Persian emperor Cyrus the Great, who permitted Jews to return to Jerusalem to rebuild their temple.

“What the world needs now is not an appeaser, but… more President Trump,” he remarked.

He then expressed admiration for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his resolute commitment to victory amidst both internal and external pressures, stating he was “the right person at the right time.”

Ohana also acknowledged the sacrifices made by Israeli Defense Forces soldiers over the past two years and noted that Trump has done more than anyone else to secure a peace agreement to end the conflict. He suggested that Israel would advocate for Trump to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize next year.

“Only those who are prepared to use force now can prevent the need to use force in the future,” he commented.

As President Trump welcomed home the hostages, the address concluded with a standing ovation, with Ohana saying, “God bless you, President Trump. God bless the United States of America, and God bless the nation of Israel.”