Trump Addresses Knesset After Hostage Release

“This marks not just the end of a war, but a turning point from fear towards faith and hope,” stated U.S. President Donald Trump in a speech to Israel’s Knesset on Monday.

His address came as 20 Israeli hostages were reunited with their families. The speech received an enthusiastic response, culminating in a standing ovation and a trumpet salute. Among those present were Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Speaker of Parliament Amir Ohana. Notably, some audience members wore red “Make America Great Again” hats.

Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed heartfelt gratitude to Trump for his longstanding support for Israel, highlighting Trump’s involvement in the hostage negotiations, endorsement of Israel’s rights, and backing of the Abraham Accords, as well as his opposition to Iran’s nuclear ambitions. “Donald Trump is the best friend Israel has ever had in the White House,” Netanyahu remarked.

He also endorsed Trump’s Gaza peace initiative, describing it as a plan that could end conflict in the region while achieving critical goals.

Speaker Ohana referred to Trump as a “giant of Jewish history,” underscoring his belief that “America First” does not mean “America alone.” Netanyahu went so far as to nominate Trump for the Israel Prize, a recognition never before given to a non-Israeli. In contrast, opposition leader Yair Lapid asserted that there had been no “genocide” in Gaza and criticized some liberal supporters of Israel for being deceived into backing Islamic terrorism.

Trump began his speech by offering thanks to God, referring to “the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob,” and noted a new dawn is breaking over the land, suggesting it signifies peace for the region.

He declared it would herald a “golden age” for both Israel and the broader Middle East.

Trump acknowledged Netanyahu, remarking on his formidable nature but emphasizing this as a strength. He also credited Arab nations for pressuring Hamas to accept the deal and recognized the negotiators’ efforts, including U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.

During his speech, some hecklers—reportedly from Arab political factions—interrupted but were swiftly removed from the chamber.

As shouts of “Trump! Trump! Trump!” filled the room, Trump quipped about the efficiency of the response.

The President went on to thank his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, humorously noting that his daughter Ivanka’s conversion to Judaism was unexpected. He commended Kushner for his role in the Abraham Accords, giving a nod to the Hebrew pronunciation of “Abraham.”

Further, he praised Secretary of State Marco Rubio as perhaps the best in that position in history, recalling their rivalry in 2016 with a light-hearted twist. He also commented positively on Secretary of the Army Pete Hegseth’s updated title, associating it with victory.

Trump expressed a desire to avoid war but made it clear that he would not shy away from combat if necessary, rejecting a “politically correct” approach.

He reflected on the tragic events of October 7 and commended the Israel Defense Forces for their skills and bravery, recalling “Operation Midnight Hammer” which earned the applause of attendees as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff John Daniel “Rigin” Kaine received recognition.

The crowd reacted to his comments on possible actions against Iran, suggesting the nation’s leaders might be open to a peace agreement. “They want to survive,” he noted.