Netanyahu Lauds Trump as Israel’s ‘Greatest Friend’
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised President Donald Trump on Monday, calling him Israel’s “greatest friend” following Hamas’s release of the last 20 hostages amid a new peace deal. Netanyahu remarked, “No American president has ever done more for Israel. It’s not even close.”
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for Trump’s unwavering support at the United Nations and for acknowledging Israel’s rights in contested areas such as the West Bank. He also criticized the prior Iran nuclear deal, which he labeled “disastrous.”
Netanyahu specifically thanked Trump for supporting military operations, referring to recent actions taken against Iran. “This is the most appropriate name ever given to a military operation—because, boy, after midnight, you really attacked them,” he said.
Trump Receives Prestigious Israel Prize
In another highlight, Netanyahu announced that Trump is the first non-Israeli to receive the Israel Prize, which is considered the country’s highest honor. “He’s not an easy guy to deal with, but that’s part of what makes him great,” Netanyahu added with a smile.
The backdrop of these remarks is the ongoing conflict, which escalated after a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, resulting in significant casualties and hostages. After extensive negotiations by Trump’s administration, Israel and Hamas reached a significant peace agreement last week.
As part of the deal, a prisoner exchange commenced on Monday: Hamas released its last 20 hostages, while Israel agreed to free 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. This exchange is a critical part of a broader 20-point peace plan aimed at not just ending hostilities but also rebuilding Gaza. Thus far, only a few of the presumed dead hostages have been returned.
Key Elements of the Peace Agreement
The agreement dictates that Israel will halt military actions and withdraw to a designated line. Plans are in motion for a complete hostage exchange. Hamas members who renounce violence will receive amnesty, while those who do not will face exclusion from governing future Gaza.
Moreover, humanitarian aid—including essential supplies and medical assistance—will flow into Gaza under the oversight of the United Nations and other impartial organizations.
The governance of Gaza will transition to a Palestinian commission managed by an international “peace commission” led by Trump, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, and other global leaders. This body will oversee Gaza’s redevelopment until a restructured Palestinian Authority is in place.
Trump’s vision involves transforming Gaza into a prosperous “miracle city,” including plans for special economic zones to attract extensive international investment. Participation in these reconstruction efforts will be voluntary, and residents won’t be compelled to leave their homes.
The security framework calls for the establishment of a U.S.-led International Stability Force to train local police and secure borders, with an emphasis on disarmament. Israel will not annex or occupy Gaza but will withdraw based on achieving specific security milestones, with the assistance of regional partners like Egypt and Jordan to ensure compliance.
