Trump’s Extended Handshake With Macron Steals Spotlight at Gaza Summit

The Gaza peace meeting in Egypt featured a long handshake between former President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron. This garnered global notice. Rarely, they held hands for 26 seconds in political theater. Macron relinquished afterward. It stood out in a meeting where most of the work was done to agree on a truce and reconstruct Gaza.

World leaders met in Sharm El-Sheikh to support and enhance the first component of a peace plan to end Israel-Hamas’ two-year war. Civilian relief, ceasefire plans, and Gaza management were crucial. The image story focused on the dramatic handshake.

Trump and Macron have shaken hands for a long time and with power. The best moment was their 30-second handshake on Bastille Day, July 14, 2017. Trump publicly clasped Macron’s hand at the last conference, refusing to let go when Macron tried to pull away. Cameras recorded the French leader holding Trump’s arm and then releasing it. After watching the show, many considered their tense diplomatic ties. It emphasized competition and public performance.

They joked about Macron before shaking hands. He replied, “I would imagine Emmanuel standing somewhere behind me.” Where’s he? “I can’t believe it,” he smiled. “You’re not making a fuss today.” Macron said the meeting was serious since it was a “historic day” for captives, Israeli families, and Palestinians. He stated that future actions must be humble and inclusive.

Even if much of the summit talks focused on peace, Trump and Macron’s moment highlighted that personal ties are still crucial in international diplomacy. It was seen as a symbol of power or strength or as a spectacular move to get media attention. Several news stories covered the shake. When two presidents had differing views on leadership, foreign policy, and relationships, it was hard to work together.

Participants from many nations signed the “Trump Declaration for Enduring Peace and Prosperity.” More than shaking hands. Signatories pledged to assist Gaza recover and rebuild. Critics stated the tone was aggressive but that responsibilities and dates were still being determined, so many things were unclear.

The handshake may be one of the most critical photographs from the Gaza peace effort. That epoch brought symbols, performances, and actual diplomacy.