Donald Trump arrived in Israel amidst thunderous applause and calls for a Nobel Peace Prize, declaring: “I’m all about stopping war."

He was welcomed in the Knesset, where lawmakers gave him standing ovations as he framed the U.S.-mediated hostage exchange and ceasefire with Hamas as the effective end of the war.  Trump hailed it as “the historic dawn of a new Middle East,” monologuing that “the skies are calm, the guns are silent.” He also emphasized his track record, repeating claims he had ended eight wars, claiming it underscored his commitment to peace. 

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lauded Trump’s role and moved to nominate him for Israel’s highest civilian award, while Israel’s Parliament pledged to rally global support for a Nobel Peace Prize nomination.  Yet observers caution that translating the ceasefire into lasting peace will demand far more than applause.