Trump: Gaza peace deal only possible after striking Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump addressed Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, on Monday, calling the day “one of profound joy and soaring hope.”

Trump opened his speech by celebrating the return of 20 Israeli hostages, noting they were “returning to the glorious embrace of their families” while the 28 deceased would finally be laid to rest. He said the region is now “at peace” and expressed hope that this will continue “for eternity.”

During his address, Trump credited U.S. military action against three Iranian nuclear sites earlier this year, saying it helped “clear a big cloud off the Middle East and off Israel” and was key to making the hostage deal possible.

He thanked his Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth for their roles in the negotiations. Trump also praised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying the prime minister’s repeated requests for weapons “led to peace.”

Trump’s speech was briefly interrupted when a Knesset member held up a sign reading “Recognise Palestine.” Security quickly removed the protester, and Trump resumed, calling the interruption “very efficient.”

Describing the event as “the historic dawn of a new Middle East,” Trump thanked Arab nations who helped with the negotiations and called the outcome “an incredible triumph.” He added that the region is entering a “golden age” for Israel and its neighbors.

Trump also mentioned he would later travel to Egypt for a peace summit with world leaders, joking that he might be late due to lengthy speeches in the Knesset.