A Call for Peace and Rebuilding After Years of Conflict

Published: October 14, 2025, 21:45 EDT

SHARM EL-SHEIKH, Egypt — U.S. President Donald Trump urged Middle Eastern leaders to move beyond decades of division and conflict, calling for “a new era of harmony” during a global summit on Gaza’s reconstruction held Monday in Egypt.

Trump’s remarks came after visiting Israel earlier in the day, where he marked the implementation of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas — a truce that aims to end two years of deadly conflict that began in 2023.

“We have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to put the old feuds and bitter hatreds behind us,” Trump said. “Our future must not be ruled by the fights of generations past.”

Leaders Gather for Summit on Gaza’s Future

Nearly three dozen nations, including European and Middle Eastern countries, attended the summit hosted in Sharm el-Sheikh. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani joined Trump in signing a declaration outlining a long-term plan for Gaza’s recovery and regional cooperation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declined to attend, citing a Jewish holiday, but later praised the peace efforts from Jerusalem.

The document presented at the summit set a broad vision for Gaza’s postwar future, focusing on reconstruction, governance, and security cooperation. Despite lingering uncertainty about implementation, Trump emphasized that momentum toward regional reconciliation was “already unfolding before the world’s eyes.”

Trump’s Symbolic Visit to Israel

Earlier that day, Trump addressed Israel’s Knesset, where he was welcomed as a “hero” by lawmakers and citizens. During his speech, he declared, “You’ve won. Now it is time to translate these victories on the battlefield into the ultimate prize of peace and prosperity for the entire Middle East.”

He pledged U.S. support for Gaza’s reconstruction and called on Palestinians to abandon “the path of terror and violence.” Trump said it was time “to build their people up instead of trying to tear Israel down.”

In a rare gesture toward Iran — which clashed with Israel earlier in the year — Trump stated that “the hand of friendship and cooperation is always open,” referencing his administration’s controversial strikes on Iranian nuclear sites during the brief war.

Ceasefire Implementation and Humanitarian Efforts

The ceasefire agreement, brokered with U.S. and regional mediation, calls for a phased exchange of hostages and prisoners, the delivery of humanitarian aid, and a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza’s main cities.

Twenty hostages were released Monday as part of the deal, which also includes commitments to reopen five border crossings to increase the flow of essential goods into Gaza, where famine and infrastructure collapse have devastated nearly two million residents.

The White House said roughly 200 U.S. troops, alongside partner nations and NGOs, will assist in monitoring and supporting the truce’s early phases.

Reactions from Regional Leaders

Trump’s visit drew enthusiastic reactions from Israeli lawmakers, who chanted his name and gave him multiple standing ovations. Some attendees wore red caps reading “Trump, The Peace President,” echoing his previous campaign slogan.

Netanyahu hailed him as “the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House,” pledging continued cooperation in the peace process. “Mr. President, you are committed to this peace. I am committed to this peace. Together, we will achieve it,” Netanyahu said.

In a surprising moment, Trump publicly called for a pardon for Netanyahu, who faces ongoing corruption charges. The move underscored Trump’s willingness to intertwine political gestures with peace diplomacy — a characteristic hallmark of his foreign policy style.

A Fragile Yet Hopeful Moment for the Region

While the ceasefire marks a turning point, analysts caution that challenges remain. The postwar governance of Gaza, the future of Hamas, and Israel’s security demands have yet to be finalized.

Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, “The war is over, OK? People are tired of it. And that’s why this peace will hold.”

The U.S. and allied governments argue that the truce presents a rare opportunity to reset Israel’s long-fraught relations with its Arab neighbors.

According to a White House statement, Arab and Muslim nations are showing “renewed focus on resolving the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict” and strengthening ties with Washington.

Gaza’s Reconstruction Challenges

Gaza’s physical and humanitarian devastation remains vast. Large swaths of the territory have been reduced to rubble, and much of its population faces displacement and hunger.

Trump previously envisioned Gaza as “the Riviera of the Middle East,” but on Sunday, he tempered expectations. “It’s blasted. This is like a demolition site,” he said, though adding, “I’d like to put my feet on it one day, at least.”

As reconstruction efforts begin, experts note that sustained funding, regional cooperation, and political compromise will be essential for lasting peace.

Outlook: A Test for Lasting Peace

The success of Trump’s proposed peace framework depends on coordinated diplomacy and consistent international support. While many remain skeptical, the summit signaled a renewed willingness among key regional actors to prioritize stability over confrontation.

For millions across the Middle East, the hope is that this ceasefire — however fragile — could mark the beginning of an enduring peace.