Trump and Macron in a heated clash: Lip reader reveals harsh words PHOTO/VIDEO

Their relationship has oscillated between friendship and open disagreements for years, and the latest incident follows France’s recognition of a Palestinian state—something Trump called “a reward for Hamas’ terrorist attack on October 7, 2023.”

During a joint photo session, the two leaders firmly shook hands, seemingly struggling for dominance. According to professional lip reader Nikolaj Hikling, they exchanged tense words:

Trump: "Glad to see you, so—did you agree?"

Macron: (turned away from the camera) "Is that sincere?"

Trump: "I want to know why. You hurt me. I already know."

Macron: "I’m trying to bring peace."

Macron: (patting Trump’s hand) "Sorry."

Trump: (ignoring and tightening his grip) "We’ll settle this behind closed doors."

Macron: "We’ll see what happens."

Trump: "Show me. See you soon."

The summit was jointly organized by Trump and Egyptian President el-Sisi, aiming to end the war in Gaza and stabilize the Middle East. Twenty world leaders attended, including representatives from Qatar, Palestine, Turkey, Spain, the United Kingdom, Italy, Norway, and the UN. Israeli and Hamas representatives were not invited.

Hikling noted that the handshake between Macron and Trump was full of "power play body language"—something previously observed between them. She added that Macron’s attempts to break contact (apologizing, looking down, turning away) indicated discomfort and a desire to de-escalate the situation. In contrast, Trump’s body language contradicted his verbal expressions of peace, suggesting an attempt to assert control under the guise of a conciliatory tone.

The incident occurred shortly after Macron stated that recognizing the Palestinian state does not mean forgetting October 7, but that continuing the war will not lead to a solution, and that the United States—as the main arms supplier—plays a key role in ending the conflict.