WASHINGTON (LBM) – After President Donald J. Trump announced, Oct. 8, that phase one of the peace deal between Israel and Hamas had been made, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Baptist, called the achievement “historic” and said it was “one that only President Trump could have delivered.” The deal would end two years of intense fighting that was ignited after Hamas attacked Israel, Oct. 7, 2023, killing 1,219 people and capturing another 251 mostly Israeli citizens. The remaining 20 hostages who are living are to be released to Israel on Monday and the final 28 bodies that have been withheld from families will be returned, too. Importantly, peace portends to follow between Israel and the Arab world. “Through strength and conviction, he’s accomplished what others have only talked about: bringing hostages home, security for Israel, and laying the groundwork for lasting peace in the Middle East,” Johnson, a member of Cypress Baptist Church in Benton, Louisiana, added. “Once again, President Trump proves that peace comes through American strength.” … [Read more...]