Donald Trump at join presser with Mahmoud Abbas in Bethlehem
Donald Trump at join presser with Mahmoud Abbas in BethlehemREUTERS

President Donald Trump called for the cessation of all of funding for terrorist activities and an end to other forms of sponsorship of and rewards for terrorism during his remarks at a joint press conference with Palestinian Authority chief Mahmoud Abbas in Bethlehem Tuesday morning.

"Peace can never take root in a place where violence is tolerated, funded and even rewarded,” said President Trump.

“We must be resolute in condemning such acts in a single, unified voice. Peace is a choice we must make each day, and the United States is here to help make that dream possible for young Jewish, Christian, and Muslim children all across the region."

The president, who met with Abbas for one hour Tuesday morning following meetings with Israel’s President and Prime Minister on Monday, said he was “committed” to helping the two sides reach a final status agreement.

"I am committed to trying to achieve a peace agreement between the Israelis and the Palestinians, and I intend to do everything I can to help them achieve that goal. President Abbas assures me he is ready to work towards that goal in good faith. And Prime Minister Netanyahu has promised the same. I look forward to working with these leaders toward a lasting peace."

"I was gratified that President Abbas joined the summit, and committed to taking firm but necessary steps to fight terrorism and confront its hateful ideology. And it’s so interesting that our meeting took place on this horrible morning of death," in a reference to the Manchester attack.

Despite continuing attacks by Arab terrorists, including an apparent terror attack in Netanya Tuesday morning, President Trump expressed his optimism he will be able to bring the two sides back to the negotiating table and hammer out a comprehensive peace deal.

"I am truly hopeful that America can help Israel and the Palestinians forge peace and bring new hope to the region and its people. I also firmly believe that if Israel and the Palestinians can make peace, it will begin a process of peace all throughout the Middle East. And that would be an amazing accomplishment."

Efrat Mayor Oded Revivi, who also serves as Chief foreign envoy of the Council for Judea and Samaria, commented on what Trump omitted: "The president didn't mention two-states in his Bethlehem statements, just peace. We hope this means that we have moved on from this failed policy and will now work together to build true and lasting peace from the ground-up.."