At a Gaza peace summit held in Egypt on Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump drew attention not for diplomacy, but for comments directed at Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni — the only woman among nearly 30 global leaders in attendance.
While delivering his speech on Middle East peace efforts, the 79-year-old president paused to comment on Meloni’s appearance. “She’s beautiful,” he said, before acknowledging that such remarks might be seen as inappropriate. “I’m not allowed to say it because usually it’s the end of your political career if you say it — she’s a beautiful young woman,” Trump added.
He went on, “If you use the word ‘beautiful’ in the United States about a woman, that’s the end of your political career, but I’ll take my chances.” Turning to Meloni, 48, he asked, “You don’t mind being called beautiful, right? Because you are.”
Meloni’s immediate reaction wasn’t captured on camera, as Trump had his back to her during the exchange. He later praised her leadership, calling her “incredible” and “a very successful politician.” Trump also noted their shared conservative views on immigration and cultural issues, adding, “They really respect her in Italy.”
Meloni’s presence as the only female leader on stage highlighted the gender imbalance at the summit, where leaders signed a joint declaration calling for renewed efforts toward peace in Gaza.
Trump’s remarks quickly reignited debate over his long history of controversial and often sexist comments. In recent months, scrutiny around his treatment of women has intensified. In September, a U.S. appeals court upheld a jury verdict ordering Trump to pay $83.3 million in damages to author E. Jean Carroll, whom he was found to have defamed after she accused him of sexual assault.
Meanwhile, a separate video showing Meloni greeting Trump with a “Namaste” gesture has gone viral on social media, further fueling discussion around their interaction at the summit.
