This early afternoon, Air Force One touched down in Israel. President Trump began his first state visit to Israel. President Reuven Rivlin and Prime Minister Netanyahu greeted him as he disembarked the plane. Israeli cabinet members and Israeli Ambassador to US Ron Dermer were also there as well as US Ambassador to Israel David Freedman.
The IDF Military Band played the Hymns of both countries and Trump reviewed the honor guard. Hundreds of Israel and US flags were unfurled and hundreds of flower bouquets decorated the airport.
In his opening speech Trump pledged to fight terrorism in the Middle East and everywhere across the globe. He also said last centuries’ horrors could never be allowed to be repeated.
Here is the speech:
It’s wonderful to be here in Israel! “Thank you, and Shalom. President Rivlin, Mrs. Rivlin, Prime Minster Netanyahu, Mrs. Netanyahu, thank you very much. I'm deeply grateful for your invitation, and very, very honored to be with you. “On my first trip overseas as president, I have come to this sacred and ancient land to reaffirm the unbreakable bond between the United States and the State of Israel.
“In this land so rich in history, Israel has built one of the world's great civilizations; a strong, resilient, determined, and prosperous nation. It is also a nation forged in the commitment that we will never allow the horrors and atrocities of the last century to be repeated.
“Now we must work together to build a future in which the nations of the region are at peace, and all of our children can grow, and grow up strong, and grow up free from terrorism and violence. We love Israel. We respect Israel. And I send your people the warmest greetings from your friend and ally, all of the people in the United States of America. We are with you.”
Watch Speech Here:You Tube White House Site