Trump to Visit Israel Amid Historic Ceasefire, May Address Knesset

U.S. President Donald Trump is set to visit Israel in the coming days, potentially delivering a speech at the Knesset, following a landmark ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

“They want me to give a speech at the Knesset, and I will definitely do that if they want me to,” Trump told Axios’ Barak Ravid on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

The announcement comes after a phone call between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where the two leaders praised the agreement as a historic achievement. “It is a great day for Israel and for the world,” Trump said. “My call with Bibi was great. He is so happy. He should be. It is a great achievement. The whole world has come together to reach this deal, including countries that were enemies.”

The ceasefire, brokered with the involvement of Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, aims to secure peace in the Gaza Strip and facilitate the release of hostages. According to a source familiar with the details, Netanyahu personally invited Trump to address the Knesset, reflecting the growing U.S.-Israel partnership and Trump’s role in the peace process.

“The two had a very emotional and warm conversation, congratulating each other on the historic achievement of signing the agreement for the release of all the hostages,” the Prime Minister’s Office said. “The Prime Minister thanked President Trump for all his efforts and global leadership, and President Trump congratulated the Prime Minister for his determined leadership. They agreed to continue their close cooperation.”

Trump announced the first phase of the peace plan on Truth Social, writing: “I am very proud to announce that Israel and Hamas have both signed off on the first phase of our Peace Plan. This means that ALL of the hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their troops to an agreed-upon line as the first steps toward a strong, durable, and everlasting peace. All parties will be treated fairly!”

Netanyahu hailed the agreement as a turning point: “Through steadfast determination, powerful military action, and the great efforts of our dear friend and ally, President Trump, we have reached this critical moment. I thank President Trump for his leadership, partnership, and unwavering commitment to Israel’s security and the freedom of our hostages. God bless Israel, God bless America, and God bless our great alliance.”

Opposition leader Yair Lapid also expressed relief: “We’re holding our breath for our children. Thank you, President Trump. The sons will return to their borders.”

Hamas confirmed the agreement and thanked Trump and the Arab and Muslim nations involved, urging the international community to ensure Israel abides by the terms of the deal. The Associated Press reported that the release of 20 hostages is expected by Sunday, with all releases occurring in a single stage. Hamas also pledged to return the remains of deceased hostages and refrain from public ceremonies marking the releases.

This historic development signals a rare moment of cautious optimism in a region long plagued by conflict, with the world watching closely as Trump prepares to arrive in Israel.