US President Donald Trump in a recent press conference, said with a mixture of frustration and defiance when he was asked a question by an Afghanistani reporter about the ongoing struggle in Afghanistan and the role of the Taliban. “It’s a beautiful voice and a beautiful accent. The only problem is I can’t understand a word you’re saying, but… Good luck. Live in peace.”
“You have a beautiful voice and a beautiful accent. The only problem is I can’t understand a word you’re saying.”
Maybe the funniest Trump quote of all time. Instant classic.
— Matt Walsh (@MattWalshBlog) February 5, 2025
His comments were within the larger framework of the United States foreign policy in the Middle East and increasing problems over Afghanistan’s security.
The Conversation
In his first press conference of his second term, President Donald Trump responded to Afghan journalist Nazira Karimi’s question about the ‘future plans’ for the Afghan people. Struggling to understand her, Trump remarked, “It’s a beautiful voice and a beautiful accent, but I can’t understand a word you’re saying.” He added, “Good luck, live in peace,” which prompted laughter from the audience.
Afghan woman journalist: You have any plan to change Afghanistan’s situation? Are you able to recognize Taliban?
Trump: It’s a beautiful voice and a beautiful accent. The only problem is I can’t understand a word you’re saying, but. But I just say this. Good luck. Live in peace. pic.twitter.com/2QJobasb6U
— FJ (@Natsecjeff) February 5, 2025
The comment came amid a broader discussion on U.S. foreign policy, where Trump also pitched the idea of the U.S. taking control of the Gaza Strip, suggesting that Palestinians relocate to other countries in the region.
Trump Criticizes US Withdrawal from Afghanistan
During his comments about Afghanistan, Trump also addressed the withdrawal that the United States undertook in 2021. Trump termed this move “the most embarrassing day” in America’s history. The disorganized evacuation and the Taliban’s re-emergence are key features that continue to form part of Trump’s message on foreign policy. Reflecting on his interactions with the Taliban, Trump pointed to his efforts during his presidency to initiate peace talks.
However, those talks were abruptly ended when the Taliban attacked and killed a US soldier in 2019, an incident Trump claimed had “ruined” the peace process.
The ex-president emphasized that the US should have exerted firmer control of the situation in Afghanistan, thereby demanding a stronger approach in rebalancing the country. The former president suggested that the US should have fully secured its interests before leaving the region.
Trump’s Proposal for Gaza Amid Ceasefire Talks
Some other comments Trump made were his proposals for Gaza during the discussions on the possible ceasefire. Speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump suggested that the United States should take “ownership” of Gaza and redevelop the area into “the Riviera of the Middle East.”
He said, “I believe the US will take over the Gaza Strip, and we will do a job with it too,” outlining a vision where the US would handle both the redevelopment and relocation of Gaza’s inhabitants, primarily Palestinians.
His proposal comes at a time when already fragile ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas are struggling, and an increasing humanitarian crisis looms large in Gaza. The plan faces criticism, not least from Egypt and Jordan – key Middle East allies. Palestinians have no option but to leave Gaza, declared Trump, described the place as “a big pile of rubble.
