Aboard Air Force One on Sunday night, October 12, U.S. President Donald Trump described the newly brokered Gaza peace agreement as “the biggest thing I was ever involved in,” calling it a defining moment of his presidency.
Speaking to reporters en route to Israel, Trump expressed optimism ahead of an international conference in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, scheduled for Monday in support of the peace deal. He said the diverse list of participating nations reflects global unity behind the agreement.
Trump noted that while Egypt handled the guest list, he was unsure why Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was not expected to attend. However, he welcomed the participation of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, calling it a “positive step” toward lasting peace.
The president credited the success of the Gaza deal to his earlier decision to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities in June, claiming the move weakened Tehran’s influence over Hamas and encouraged compromise. He added that resolving tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear ambitions allowed Arab and Muslim nations to rally behind the agreement.
The deal coincides with the release of the final 20 living Israeli hostages held by Hamas on Monday and aims to formally end a conflict that, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, has claimed more than 67,000 Palestinian lives.
During his visit to Israel, Trump is set to address the Knesset on Monday morning with a message of “Love and peace for eternity.” His itinerary also includes meetings with hostage families and Prime Minister Netanyahu.
Trump mentioned watching a Saturday rally in Tel Aviv held in support of the hostages, where his daughter Ivanka Trump, son-in-law Jared Kushner, and envoy Steve Witkoff spoke. He described it as “an incredible rally,” noting the crowd’s cheers for his name and the boos for Netanyahu when mentioned by Witkoff.
