Netanyahu: ‘For First Time in My Lifetime’ Peace, Change Are Possible

In a joint press conference on Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the presidency of Donald Trump represents the “first time in my lifetime” that change and peace in the Middle East are possible.

Netanyahu made it undoubtedly clear that he and his country are thrilled that after eight years of icy treatment from the Obama administration, U.S.-Israeli relations are thawing fast with Trump in the White House.

“But for the first time in many years — and, Mr. President, for the first time in my lifetime — I see a real hope for change.”

“I cannot tell you how much we appreciate the change in policy on Iran, which you announced,” Netanyahu told Trump during the press conference, and “how much we appreciate the reassertion of American leadership in the Middle East.”

Netanyahu’s words echoed earlier remarks made on Monday by Israeli President Reuven Rivlin following a closed-door meeting with Trump.

“I believe that the unbreakable bond between us, along with your determination, will open up new possibilities for the state of Israel and the entire region,” said Rivlin. “We are happy to see that America is back in the area,” Rivlin continued. “America is back again.”

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Trump, in both his appearances with Rivlin and Netanyahu, respectively, stressed how the regional threat posed by Iran could bring Israel and Sunni Muslim nations in the region, such as Saudi Arabia, closer together — a sentiment Netanyahu echoed.

“I … look forward to working closely with you to advance peace in our region — because you have noted so succinctly that common dangers are turning former enemies into partners,” Netanyahu said.

“That’s where we see something new and potentially something very promising,” Netanyahu continued. “It won’t be simple. But for the first time in many years — and, Mr. President, for the first time in my lifetime — I see a real hope for change,” he said.

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Trump’s first trip abroad has so far been relatively well-received in the mainstream media, and less-biased sources are widely praising the first leg of the trip as a success. Both the Saudis and Israelis have expressed an eager willingness to work with the United States to combat extremism in the region.

“During my travels, I have seen many hopeful signs that lead me to believe that we can truly achieve a more peaceful future for this region and for people of all faiths and all beliefs and, frankly, all over the world,” Trump said during the press conference with Netanyahu.