JERUSALEM: US President Donald Trump called on Israelis and Palestinians to make compromises for peace on Tuesday as he wrapped up a closely watched visit, but offered no specifics on how to resolve the conflict.

In a speech before he flew to Rome for a high-profile meeting with Pope Francis, Trump offered a forceful defence of the Jewish state and pledged to protect the country from Iran.

But he also vowed he was “personally committed” to helping Israel reach a deal with the Palestinians, while backtracking from previous claims that could be easier than thought to achieve.

“Making peace however will not be easy,” Trump told an audience at the Israel Museum.

“Both sides will face tough decisions. But with determination, compromise and the belief that peace is possible, Israelis and Palestinians can make a deal.” He offered no detail and did not specifically mention the two-state solution, long the focus of international efforts and US Middle East diplomacy.

The parts of the speech offering a robust defence of Israel drew loud applause, which seemed to energise Trump on the second leg of his first foreign trip since taking office.

After mentioning threats to Israel from Hezbollah, Hamas and Iran, he said, “not with Donald J. Trump,” drawing enthusiastic applause. “I like you too,” Trump said when the audience quietened.

Published in Dawn, May 24th, 2017