President Donald Trump arrived in Egypt on Monday for a global summit on Gaza’s future, continuing his push for peace in the Middle East after celebrating a U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The visit follows his speech at the Knesset in Jerusalem earlier in the day and comes at a fragile but hopeful time after two years of war.
A Message of Optimism and Resolve
Standing beside Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, Trump declared, “Everybody said it’s not possible to do. And it’s going to happen. And it is happening before your very eyes.” The summit gathered representatives from over two dozen countries, though Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declined to attend due to a Jewish holiday. Trump emphasized his determination to turn the ceasefire into a foundation for long-term peace. “You’ve won,” he told Israeli lawmakers. “Now it is time to translate these victories against terrorists on the battlefield into the ultimate prize of peace and prosperity for the entire Middle East.”
Trump’s Call to Rebuild and Reconcile
During his speech, Trump urged Palestinians to “turn forever from the path of terror and violence.” He promised to help rebuild Gaza, saying, “After tremendous pain and death and hardship, now is the time to concentrate on building their people up instead of trying to tear Israel down.” Even toward Iran, with whom tensions remain high, Trump extended a symbolic offer: “The hand of friendship and cooperation is always open.”
A Whirlwind Trip Through the Region
Trump’s schedule was packed, arriving in Egypt hours late after extended remarks in Jerusalem. He met with families of hostages released as part of the ceasefire, where one woman told him, “Your name will be remembered to generations.” At the Knesset, lawmakers repeatedly gave him standing ovations, with some donning red hats that read “Trump, The Peace President.” Netanyahu praised him as “the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House,” adding, “Mr. President, you are committed to this peace. I am committed to this peace. And together, Mr. President, we will achieve this peace.”
In an unexpected twist, Trump called on Israel’s president to pardon Netanyahu, describing him as “one of the greatest wartime leaders.” He also used the moment to criticize past Democratic presidents and thank key supporters like Miriam Adelson.
Seizing a Window for Change
The summit’s timing is critical. The first phase of the ceasefire calls for Hamas to release remaining hostages, Israel to release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, and humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza. Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, “The war is over, OK? I think people are tired of it.” He credited the ceasefire’s progress to his administration’s strong stance against Iranian-backed groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
Arab and Muslim nations are showing renewed commitment to resolving the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In February, Trump had envisioned Gaza becoming “the Riviera of the Middle East.” More recently, he admitted, “I don’t know about the Riviera for a while. It’s blasted. This is like a demolition site,” though he added he hoped one day to visit and “put my feet on it.”
Challenges Ahead
Despite the hopeful tone, challenges remain. Gaza’s reconstruction, Hamas’ disarmament, and postwar governance are unresolved. Israel has hinted that military operations could resume if conditions aren’t met. Gaza, home to around two million people, remains in crisis, though Israel agreed to reopen five border crossings to allow food and supplies. About 200 U.S. troops, along with partner nations and NGOs, will help monitor the ceasefire.
A Step Toward a Fragile Peace
Trump’s arrival in Egypt marks another push to solidify a delicate peace that could reshape the Middle East. His call for rebuilding Gaza and fostering cooperation across borders may signal a turning point—if both sides can sustain the ceasefire and choose dialogue over division. As Trump said at the summit, the goal now is “not just to end the war, but to begin the peace.”