President Donald Trump received an enthusiastic reception from Israeli lawmakers on Monday as he announced that "the long and painful nightmare is finally over," following the successful negotiation of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, effectively concluding two years of conflict.

This marked the first address by a U.S. president to Israel's parliament since 2008. Trump proclaimed this day as "the moment that everything began to change - and change very much for the better - in the Middle East."

The speech coincided with the release of 20 remaining Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. As part of the ceasefire deal, Israel agreed to release 250 Palestinian prisoners along with more than 1,700 others detained during military operations in Gaza.

Trump's diplomatic journey also includes attending a peace summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, co-chaired by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi with participation from various global leaders.
"The second phase of negotiations on a peace agreement is underway," Trump stated upon his arrival in Egypt.

During his Knesset address, Trump declared that the region was experiencing "the historic dawn of a new Middle East," reminiscent of language he used during his first term when Israel secured normalization agreements with Arab states.

"At last, not only for Israelis but also Palestinians, the long and painful nightmare is finally over," he emphasized amid chants of "Trump, Trump, Trump" from jubilant lawmakers.

He described the truce as "the most challenging breakthrough of them all - maybe ever," reflecting on discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu where he advised restraint during prolonged hostilities.

"I said, ‘Bibi, you're going to be remembered for this far more than if you kept this thing going,’” recounted Trump.

The session faced brief interruption when an opposition lawmaker presented a sign demanding "Recognize Palestine." Security removed at least one individual from the chamber.

Netanyahu introduced Trump as "the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House," commending his "unremitting help" in facilitating hostage release efforts. He noted that American attitudes towards Israel's actions in Gaza shifted considerably after Trump's re-election last year.

In reciprocation, Trump praised Netanyahu as "one of the greatest wartime leaders," though acknowledging him as “not the easiest guy to deal with.”

The delegation accompanying Trump included Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and senior adviser Jared Kushner who was warmly welcomed alongside Ivanka Trump.

Lawmaker support was visible with many donning red caps emblazoned with “Trump the Peace President.” The speaker suggested Trump merits consideration for a Nobel Peace Prize.

The Gaza ceasefire initiated on Friday represents phase one of Trump's ambitious 20-point peace strategy. Subsequent steps involving reconstruction efforts within Gaza and tackling issues related to governance and long-term security remain subjects under discussion.