During a high-stakes Gaza peace summit in Egypt, US President Donald Trump spotlighted Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the sole female leader among 30 on stage, with a compliment that raised eyebrows: ‘She’s beautiful.’
The event unfolded on Monday, where leaders signed a declaration for Middle East peace. Trump, 79 and thrice-married, admitted the risk, noting such words could derail a US political career amid his history of sexism critiques.
‘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 said, turning to Meloni. ‘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.’
Social media erupted in backlash, with X users questioning the double standard: ‘Do we go around telling men how handsome they are?’ The remark reignited debates on Trump’s past, including a recent $83.3-million defamation penalty upheld for sexually assaulting E. Jean Carroll.
In a world of tough politics, does a ‘beautiful’ compliment build bridges or barriers? It leaves us wondering about respect in leadership.
Sources: NDTV, Hindustan Times
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