After President Donald Trump announced a shocking plan for U.S. intervention in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Trump for his success solving problems by employing unconventional methods.
In a joint press conference at the White House, Netanyahu declared Trump to be “the greatest friend Israel has ever had” in the Oval Office – then detailed Israel’s three goals in its Gaza conflict with the terrorist organization Hamas:
“In Gaza, Israel has three goals: destroy Hamas’ military and governing capabilities, secure the release of all our hostages and ensure that Gaza never again poses a threat to Israel.”
Pres. Trump’s habit of thinking outside the box is key to Israel’s success in achieving these goals, Israel’s prime minister explained:
”I believe, Mr. President, that your willingness to puncture conventional thinking – thinking that has failed time and time and time again – your willingness to think outside the box with fresh ideas will help us to achieve all these goals.”
“And I’ve seen you do this many times,” Netanyahu told Trump, recalling how the U.S. president’s creative ideas have ultimately proven to be right, despite the naysayers:
“You cut to the chase. You see things others refuse to see. You say things others refuse to say. And after the jaws drop, people scratch their heads and they say, ‘You know, he’s right.’”
“And this is the kind of thinking that enabled us to bring the Abraham Accords. This is the kind of thinking that will enable us to shape the Middle East and bring peace,” Netanyahu predicted.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the joint press conference with US President Donald Trump:
— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) February 5, 2025
"You are the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House. That’s why the people of Israel have such enormous respect for you."
Full remarks >>https://t.co/nVafaOIFpI pic.twitter.com/mllENrFjX1
Trump, speaking before Netanyahu’s statement, declared that "The U.S. will take over the Gaza strip.” and “be responsible for dismantling all of the dangerous, unexploded bombs and other weapons on the site.”
The move would develop the area’s economy and create a bounty of both jobs and housing, Trump said.
President Trump on securing PEACE in Gaza: "The U.S. will take over the Gaza strip ... and be responsible for dismantling all of the dangerous, unexploded bombs and other weapons on the site ... create an economic development that will supply unlimited numbers of jobs and housing… pic.twitter.com/sr3rnO0fE4
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) February 5, 2025