“The Alliance Between Our Nations Will Soon Be Stronger Than Ever”
“We had wonderful discussions,” President Trump said at the beginning of the meeting. “Netanyahu is the first foreign leader to visit our administration. Bibi, I want to say it is a great honor to host you.” Trump emphasized that “over the past four years, the alliance between our countries has been tested more than ever before, yet the bond and affection between our peoples have remained unshakable. Under our leadership, I am confident the alliance between our nations will soon be stronger than ever.”
Gaza Evacuation Plan
At the start of the meeting, Trump announced his plan to permanently evacuate all Gazans from the enclave. During the subsequent press conference, he further stated that the United States intends to take control over Gaza.
“We must reach out to other nations with a humanitarian interest and create areas that will eventually house 1.8 million Palestinians,” Trump said. “This could be in 7 to 12 different areas or one large zone, but people must be able to live in peace and security.” He continued, “I believe Gaza, which has been a symbol of death and destruction for so many years, has been disastrous for everyone living there.” Trump also asserted, “The only reason the Palestinians want to return to Gaza is because they have no alternative. It’s a wasteland. They live in ruins, but instead, they could live in peace.”
He confirmed that the U.S. plans to “take over Gaza and get the job done. We will flatten Gaza, remove the destruction, and develop its economy—we need to do something different.” Prime Minister Netanyahu endorsed the proposal, calling it “an original idea.”
Hostage Release Negotiations
Regarding the ongoing hostage negotiations, Trump declared his intent to finalize the deal, issuing a stern warning to Hamas: “If all the hostages are not released, we will respond with greater force.”
The president emphasized that his Middle East envoy, Avi Berkowitz, is working around the clock to advance the deal. Trump also expressed optimism about a long-term truce, saying, “I hope this ceasefire marks the beginning of a lasting and sustainable peace.” Netanyahu stressed that the world understands that Hamas cannot remain in Gaza, stating: “In one of the ceasefires, a Hamas leader openly declared they would repeat October 7. If we want a different future, we must eliminate those who seek to destroy peace.”
Watch the full press conference:
"The U.S. will take over the Gaza Strip, and we will do a job with it, too." –President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/aCqLl9Gwwn
— President Donald J. Trump (@POTUS) February 5, 2025
Peace Agreement with Saudi Arabia
Addressing ongoing negotiations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, Trump stated: “Saudi Arabia will help. They want peace in the Middle East. They are wonderful people.”
Netanyahu echoed his optimism: “I believe peace between Israel and Saudi Arabia is not just possible—it will happen. If you had continued your presidency, it would have already happened. I believe the Saudi leadership wants this.”
Trump added that Saudi Arabia would not insist on the establishment of a Palestinian state as part of the peace agreement. However, later that night, Saudi officials issued a statement rejecting normalization without a Palestinian state.
The Iranian Nuclear Issue
During the press conference, Trump made strong remarks about Iran, reiterating his commitment to preventing Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
“Iran will become a peaceful, prosperous country,” Trump stated. “We pushed them to the brink financially. They were bankrupt. I hate having to do it again, but let me tell Iran, which I know is listening carefully—I would love to make a great deal with you so you can move forward with your lives.” However, he made it clear: “They cannot have nuclear weapons.”
This meeting marked a pivotal moment in U.S.-Israel relations, with significant discussions on Gaza, Iran, and regional peace efforts. While much remains uncertain, the partnership between the two leaders continues to shape the future of the Middle East.
