THE AMERICAN POSEIDON ADVENTURE

The release of the remaining hostages itself was a reason to cheer. trump secured the freedom of the final twenty living hostages. A profound victory for their families and friends. It was also a good day for many Palestinians who benefited from the deal. Many were not combatants, but civilians caught in the “fog of war,” deserving of freedom and dignity.

This goal had long been sought by both Presidents Biden and trump. Biden’s diplomacy achieved the release of approximately seventy hostages; trump’s effort added another forty-five to fifty. Both men deserve credit for their persistence and humanity. This latest agreement may also help resolve some of the long-standing issues fueling the conflict. Let us hope that proves true.

Everyone rejoiced—and rightly so. It was a day of peace and, perhaps, the first glimmer of reconciliation. A genuine leader, one dedicated to (Nobel?) peace, would have seized the moment to celebrate shared progress, to build on it, and to look forward with hope and dignity. But not donald j. trump. What a disappointment.

As Thomas Friedman observed, there was hope that trump might learn through this experience—that he might grasp how power, when used with compassion, can foster peace and prosperity. So far, Tom, it’s the pits.

Instead of rising to the moment, trump reinforced the image of a small man, pathological narcissist. He spent the day hurling insults and indulging delusions, accusing Biden and Obama of “hatred of Israel” and other debasing nonsense. Those “ass act” remarks diminished trump himself, tarnished America’s honor, and stole dignity from a day that should have been remembered for grace.

By contrast, President Biden responded with dignity and character, issuing a ‘class act’ statement that reflected true collegiality and a sense of humanity:

“The road to this deal was not easy. My Administration worked relentlessly to bring hostages home, get relief to Palestinian civilians, and end the war. I commend President Trump and his team for their work to get a renewed ceasefire deal over the finish line.”

It was an opportunity for trump to shed his old “bone spurs” skin and step into the mantle of dignity, integrity, and pride worthy of the moment. A magnificent opportunity lost—foregone, forewarning of what may be yet to come.

RESIST!!! & EDUCATE!!!