Trump, Macron’s 27-second handshake steals the spotlight at Gaza peace signing VIDEO

US President Donald Trump and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron once again exchanged a prolonged and forceful handshake that lasted 27 seconds during the signing ceremony of the Gaza peace accord in Egypt. 

The two leaders met just before the “family photo” session with world heads of state who had gathered in Sharm el-Sheikh on Monday, October 13, to witness the landmark ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, Caliber.Az reports, citing HuffPost.

Trump was seen warmly greeting presidents, prime ministers, and other officials one by one until the atmosphere seemed to grow more intense with the arrival of France’s leader. 

Throughout the 27-second handshake, they began with a customary clasp and brief embrace before both appeared to pull against each other in a firm, overhand grip. 

When Macron tried to disengage, Trump maintained his hold, seemingly prompting the French president to grasp his counterpart’s forearm before the two finally separated.

During the same summit, Trump made a light-hearted remark about Macron, thanking him and joking with a smile that he was probably standing somewhere behind him. 

The US president noted that Macron seemed unusually reserved that day but stressed that he still considered the French leader a friend.

By Khagan Isayev