Monday, 25 May 2026
Sisi welcomes historic Gaza peace agreement at Sharm el-Sheikh Summit
Sharm el-Sheikh — In a moment of profound significance for the Middle East, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi hosted world leaders for the Sharm el-Sheikh Peace Summit on Monday, where the landmark "Sharm el-Sheikh Agreement" to end the war in Gaza was officially announced.
Addressing an assembly of global dignitaries, President Sisi warmly welcomed attendees, calling the summit "a defining moment in history." He celebrated the peace agreement as a beacon of hope for millions, expressing optimism that it would close a painful chapter of conflict and open the path toward a new era of peace and stability in the region.
“We have come together in pursuit of a better tomorrow for the peoples of the Middle East, who have suffered so long from the scourge of war,” Sisi stated.
President Sisi offered particular recognition to U.S. President Donald Trump, praising his leadership and determination in pursuing peace. “True leadership, Mr. President, is not in waging wars, but in ending them,” Sisi told President Trump, inviting him to join fellow world leaders in celebrating this historic step forward. He also conveyed deep appreciation to the key partners who helped broker the agreement, including the United States, Turkey, and Qatar.
A central theme of President Sisi’s speech was Egypt’s enduring commitment to peace. He recalled President Anwar Sadat’s groundbreaking 1977 visit to Jerusalem and reaffirmed that peace remains a strategic choice for Egypt and its Arab and Islamic partners. Sisi emphasized the necessity of justice and equal rights as the foundation for any lasting peace, reiterating his country’s unwavering support for a two-state solution as the only viable path for Palestinians and Israelis to live side by side in security.
He directly addressed the people of Israel, urging them to seize this historic moment as an opportunity for justice and peaceful coexistence. “Let’s work together for a future in which our children know only peace and cooperation. Extend your hands so that we may build a better tomorrow for all,” Sisi appealed.
President Sisi also announced Egypt’s intention to host a major conference on early recovery, reconstruction, and development in Gaza, working alongside the United States and regional partners. "Peace is fulfilled only when hands build after destruction," he said, voicing a sincere commitment to helping restore hope and opportunity for Palestinians.
Looking ahead, President Sisi spoke of the chance to create a "new Middle East" — one that is free from war, terrorism, and weapons of mass destruction, and where all peoples enjoy security, dignity, and protected rights.
In recognition of President Trump’s efforts, President Sisi concluded his remarks by awarding him the “Order of the Nile,” Egypt’s highest honor, traditionally reserved for heads of state and individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to humanity.
With this historic agreement, leaders expressed hope that the war in Gaza would be the region’s last, ushering in a brighter, more peaceful era for all.