US President-elect Donald Trump has called the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas a “first step” towards achieving lasting peace in the Middle East, claiming that this “epic” deal could only have occurred due to his victory in the November 2024 presidential elections.
Trump’s Comments on the Ceasefire and the Israel-Hamas Conflict
Addressing his supporters at the Make America Great Again (MAGA) Victory Rally, Trump stated,
“We achieved an epic ceasefire agreement as a first step towards lasting peace in the Middle East. This agreement could have happened only as a result of our historic victory in November.”
Trump further remarked,
“The first hostages have just been released… Biden said that they made the deal, well… First of all, it (the Israel-Hamas conflict) would have never happened if I were the President.”
Focus on Border Security and Illegal Immigration
During the rally, Trump laid out plans to tackle border security and illegal immigration, pledging to take immediate steps to assert control over the US border. He emphasized,
“We will quickly re-establish control of our sovereign territory and borders.”
Trump also vowed to take strong action against illegal immigration, stating,
“We will expel every illegal alien gang member and migrant criminal operating on American soil.”
He added,
“Before this, nobody could even think of open borders, prisons, mental institutions, men playing in women’s sports, transgenders for everyone… Very soon we will begin the largest deportation exercise in American history.”
Creation of a New Government Department
Trump also announced plans to create a new government department, emphasizing efficiency and innovation,
“We will create the new department of government efficiency headed by Elon Musk…”
Elon Musk’s Participation in Trump’s Rally
Elon Musk, who spoke at the rally, expressed excitement for the future,
“We’re looking forward to making a lot of changes. This victory is the start. What matters going forward is to make significant changes and set the foundation for America to be strong for centuries to come… Make America Great Again.”
Inauguration and Ceremonies
Earlier in the day, Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance participated in a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, where they laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Trump’s inauguration celebrations began on January 18 with an exclusive friends and family event at Trump National Golf Course in Virginia, followed by a Victory Rally and candlelight dinner on January 19. The official inauguration ceremony and ball took place on January 20.