President Donald Trump faced backlash on social media after a noticeable gaffe during a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on March 15, 2024. The event, held in the White House’s state dining room, was intended to discuss ongoing tensions in the Middle East, but Trump seemed to confuse the timeline of his presidency, stating, “I mean, I would say it started around 2015 and then went into 2016 when the presidency began, officially began.”
The president’s remarks drew criticism from several users online, who highlighted the inconsistency in his recollection. One user quipped, “Doesn’t know when his presidency began,” while another remarked, “Trump doesn’t even know what year he was inaugurated.”
During the press conference, Trump announced his support for Netanyahu’s efforts to address the threat posed by Hamas, stating that the Israeli prime minister has “the full backing to finish the job of destroying the threat.” This backing comes as part of a broader initiative to bring peace to Gaza, contingent upon the disarmament of Hamas.
Trump emphasized the importance of collaboration among Arab nations, stating, “As progress is made toward achieving these goals, Arab and Muslim nations need to be allowed the chance to fulfill these commitments of dealing with Hamas.” He warned that any further aggression from Hamas would meet with “destruction.”
The press conference revealed a 20-point peace plan that aims to establish an interim government for Gaza. Trump declared, “Today is a historic day for peace,” urging for what he described as “eternal peace in the Middle East.” He expressed optimism that all parties would accept the deal, which includes provisions for the immediate cessation of hostilities.
Should the agreement be approved, Hamas would be required to release all hostages within 72 hours, both living and deceased. In exchange, Israel would release 250 prisoners serving life sentences and 1,700 Gazans detained since October 7, 2023, which includes all women and children. Additionally, the plan stipulates that for each Israeli hostage’s remains returned, Israel will return the remains of 15 deceased Gazans.
The peace initiative also offers amnesty to those within Hamas who agree to peaceful coexistence and surrender their weapons. Those wishing to leave Gaza would be granted safe passage to other countries.
Trump concluded the press conference on a hopeful note, stating, “I hope that we’re going to have a deal for peace.” Despite the challenges ahead, the administration’s commitment to resolving the conflict appears unwavering, underscoring the ongoing complexity of Middle Eastern diplomacy.
