Tens of thousands of Israelis gathered at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv on Saturday, unveiling a large black banner with bright yellow lettering that reads, “Nobel President Trump.” This display of admiration for the U.S. president, who did not win the Nobel Peace Prize despite campaigning for it, stems from many Israelis crediting him with facilitating a ceasefire agreement that is expected to bring back the remaining 48 hostages from Gaza, with 20 believed to be alive.
Miriam Ben Yehuda, speaking from Sderot, Israel, emphasized Trump’s efforts for peace and expressed gratitude, stating, “We need him to continue striving for the successful implementation of this deal.” Trump is scheduled to visit Israel on Monday to address the Knesset, where he is anticipated to receive appreciation, albeit briefly, for his involvement in the ceasefire.
The main highway connecting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is adorned with American flags alongside Israeli flags. In Tel Aviv, an electronic billboard draws parallels between Trump and Cyrus the Great, known in biblical accounts for liberating Jews from Babylonia. Another sign at Hostages Square compares Trump to Oskar Schindler, recognized for saving Jewish lives during World War II.
Rami Lador, holding an American flag in Tel Aviv, commended Trump’s resolute approach, noting how the president’s strong stance sent a message to extremists on both sides. Despite opposition from some far-right Israeli politicians, Trump’s pressure led Netanyahu to accept the agreement following Israeli actions in Doha, Qatar, that displeased Trump.
During a White House meeting with Netanyahu and the Qatari Prime Minister, Netanyahu expressed regret for the airstrike in Doha, leading to renewed momentum in negotiations. While Trump garners praise for the diplomatic breakthrough, it was his special envoy Steven Wikoff who laid the groundwork for talks across the Middle East.
At the Tel Aviv gathering, Wikoff commended the Israeli people for their resilience and applauded Trump’s bold leadership. However, when he mentioned Netanyahu, the crowd reacted with boos, highlighting the sentiment that Netanyahu is held responsible by many for delays in securing the hostages’ release and perpetuating conflict with Hamas.
