The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has been working to realize its new vision for peace in the Middle East. This vision includes eradicating the Hamas movement in Gaza, achieving a peace agreement with Saudi Arabia, and addressing the Iranian threat, according to an interview with an individual close to Trump published by an Israeli newspaper.
The article quotes Mike Evans, founder of the Friends of Zion Museum and a close associate of Trump, saying that a solution in the Middle East requires broad cooperation with Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Israel. This cooperation involves making concessions while working to end international support for Hamas. Trump reportedly views Israel as a U.S. proxy against Iran, providing it with political and military support without directly involving America in wars, according to the newspaper Israel Hayom.
The report also claims that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman described Palestinians as “stupid” for fighting Israel instead of striving to emulate its successes.
Trump’s plan also emphasizes strengthening normalization between Israel and Arab countries. He views peace with Saudi Arabia as part of a broader strategy that includes regional reforms and resolving the Palestinian issue.
Evans further stated that “under President Sisi, Egypt knows how to handle the Muslim Brotherhood and will also be a partner in resolving the Gaza issue, dealing with Hamas in the same way. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman detests Hamas’ actions and the promotion of hatred among Palestinians. He wants to change this by reforming the education system—something he personally mentioned to me in a conversation.”
According to Evans, resolving the Palestinian issue in general will take time, perhaps two to three years, and also depends on the Israeli government.
Bin Salman was reportedly quoted as saying: “The stupid Palestinians squandered their own money and aid funds. Instead of mimicking Israel’s success, they fought against it.”
Evans emphasized that Bin Salman is “a strong supporter of Israel—perhaps even more than some Israelis themselves—and shares similar sentiments with the Emiratis.”
He continued, “Trump wants and plans to bring about Saudi-Israeli normalization this year. Both sides want it, and Trump, who brought the Abraham Accords to fruition, is the right man to finalize the deal.”
Evans concluded by stating, “I believe Donald Trump is the best president for Israel. Hamas understands that it is better for them to make agreements and align with Trump’s plans; otherwise, they will face severe consequences. There’s no doubt that Trump will support Israel’s actions against Iran because he knows Iran is a shared enemy of Israel and the entire Western world, including the U.S., of course. I am confident that you will soon witness Saudi Arabia moving closer to Israel, leading to peace. The Abraham Accords will expand, and Egypt will contribute to the transformation the Middle East has been waiting for.”
