US President Donald Trump arrived in Israel on Monday, October 13, where he was warmly welcomed by the country’s top leaders, including President Isaac Herzog and his wife Michal Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara Netanyahu, Jared Kushner, Ivanka Trump, Ambassador Mike Huckabee, and US Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff.

As Air Force One entered Israeli airspace, the Ben Gurion Airport Control Tower displayed a special message, saying, “Welcome to the State of Israel, Mr President. Your visit carries deep meaning for our people at this time. Thank you for your friendship and the unbreakable bond between our nations. God bless America, and God bless Israel.”

After landing, Trump shared a ride with Prime Minister Netanyahu to Jerusalem, and later signed the guestbook at the Knesset in preparation for his address to the Israeli parliament.

He entered the Knesset accompanied by Netanyahu and the Speaker of the Knesset, receiving a standing ovation from the lawmakers. Trump described the occasion as “a day of profound joy and soaring hope,” and hailed the moment as a new chapter for Israel and the broader region.

In his address, Trump began by commending Israel’s resilience and the leadership that had guided the country through recent challenges. He acknowledged his son-in-law Jared Kushner’s efforts, saying, “in fact, loves it so much that my daughter converted,” and highlighted the presence of Ivanka Trump, adding, “They have a great marriage, and they get along great.”

Trump paid tribute to the horrors of October 7, stating that the United States will “never forget” the attack on Israel and vowing, “never again.” He underlined the enduring friendship between the United States and Israel, noting the historic significance of the moment.

During the speech, Trump faced a brief disruption when Knesset member Ayman Odeh called for recognition of Palestine. Trump responded calmly as the individual was escorted out, commenting, “That was very efficient,” after the Knesset Speaker issued an apology for the interruption.

He then articulated his vision for peace in the region, calling it the dawn of “a new golden age of Israel and a golden age of the Middle East,” and emphasised that the moment marked the end of unceasing danger and conflict.

Israel Prime Minister nominated President Trump for Israel’s highest civilian award- the Presidential Medal of Honour. The Israeli Presidential Medal of Honour was established in 2012 by former President Shimon Peres. It is awarded to individuals, both Israeli citizens and foreigners, for exceptional contributions to Israel or humanity, through public service, leadership, or other significant efforts. The medal is a symbol of recognition for advancing Israel's interests, peace, and global goodwill.

Trump concluded by praising the key figures involved in regional diplomacy and reaffirming his commitment to Israel. He honoured both Israel’s leadership and its people, highlighting the strength, courage, and determination that had shaped recent events.