Former President Donald Trump has garnered attention as he returns to the United States following a significant diplomatic mission in the Middle East. Commonly referred to as the “peace president,” Trump did much behind the scenes to help broker a ceasefire just this past spring. His successful negotiations resulted in the unconditional release of dozens of hostages. After this announcement, thousands took to the streets in massive protests showing their support for Trump. In Tel Aviv, hundreds of thousands responded with clear and resounding gestures—many waving thank you signs and gestures.
During a world leaders’ summit to stop Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza, convened in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, Trump’s attendance would be a blessing. Supporters expressed their love with a beautiful sea of red. As the ambassador to the United States flew into Israel, giant letters carved into the shore welcomed him with “Thank you.” Emerging back into the White House, Trump saluted his success with a triumphant fist pump. This last gesture inaugurated his burgeoning confidence in the thorough diplomatic work established by his iconic tour.
The vast Israeli support for Trump had been obvious from his first visit to Israel. One woman sported an outfit covered in American flag colors and held a sign that said, “We love Trump.” Families of released hostages and members of the Israeli government have expressed their thanks, acknowledging Trump’s involvement in securing their loved ones’ freedom.
The Biden administration, under President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, has done that masterfully in the past month – 105 in November, 2023. Yet even with this accomplishment, it continues to come under fire. That’s more than the number announced to have been freed under two later ceasefires brokered under Trump’s watch. Most importantly, ambiguities still abound. With Israel’s Defense Minister formally declaring an escalation to military action against Hamas, the fires and airstrikes on Gaza are persisting.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen, with reports indicating that another 13,000 Gazans have lost their lives due to the conflict. As a result of Israel’s blockade of international aid, famine now looms in parts of Gaza. This affront has drawn widespread condemnation and outcry from dozens of world leaders and organizations. The global community has mostly come together to condemn Israel’s military response, adding another layer of complexity to the budding diplomatic crisis.
Tempers are frayed as the game continues. Trump’s role in the ceasefire negotiations and the release of hostages will be the subject of long-debated narratives inside Israel and across the globe.
