President Donald Trump’s day-long tour through the Middle East was a significant event, timed with the finalization of the Gaza deal, a critical moment following two years of conflict. Trump characterized the day as “historic,” suggesting that “everlasting peace” had been achieved in the region. Traveling aboard Air Force One, our team witnessed this diplomatic whirlwind firsthand.
As the presidential plane approached Tel Aviv, it performed a fly-by of a beach adorned with a large “thank you” sign to Trump, featuring the Israeli flag and an outline of the president’s profile. This spectacle set the tone for a trip that felt more like a victory lap than a detailed negotiation session for the future of Gaza.
The agreement, clinched in Doha the previous week, was a major milestone. It saw the cessation of major combat operations in Gaza, the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, and the return of Palestinians to their homes amidst Israeli troop withdrawals. However, the journey highlighted the fragile nature of this truce in a long-standing conflict.
During the flight back, President Trump spoke with the press corps, emphasizing his pivotal role in securing the deal and expressing confidence in its longevity. He described jubilant scenes in “every country” and was optimistic about the ceasefire holding, though he was less forthcoming on the crucial next steps for securing and governing Gaza. When questioned about the proposed International Stabilization Force (ISF), Trump described it as a “big, strong force” that would “barely” need to be used due to expected compliance.
Upon landing in Tel Aviv, Trump received a red-carpet welcome and military honors before heading to Jerusalem. Simultaneously, in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, crowds watched a giant screen, celebrating the release of hostages. Trump’s arrival was juxtaposed with these emotional reunions, marking a powerful split-screen moment.
Inside the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, the atmosphere was celebratory, with attendees wearing caps proclaiming “The president of peace.” Trump hailed a “historic dawn of a new Middle East” and even encouraged the Israeli president to pardon Prime Minister Netanyahu amidst his corruption trial.
The press contingent was then flown to Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, the location of the earlier mediated talks. Escorted by Egyptian F16s, the flight underscored Trump’s appreciation for military displays. In Sharm el-Sheikh, world leaders gathered behind Trump as he proclaimed “PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST,” though Egyptian President Abdel Fatah el-Sisi reiterated the goal of a two-state solution.
Trump’s approach had shifted significantly, showing increased irritation with Israeli leadership and drawing closer to Gulf allies. This diplomatic dance occurred as European nations sought to isolate Israel over its actions in Gaza. Trump’s triumphant declaration of achieving peace after “3,000 years” at the signing ceremony was met with a stark reminder that much work remains.