Donald Trump tells Emmanuel Macron: 'You hurt me' after 'death grip' handshake

Donald Trump invites Keir Starmer to peace summit stage after unveiling Gaza deal |

GB NEWS

Aymon Bertah

By Aymon Bertah


Published: 14/10/2025

- 11:09

The pair had an awkward exchange in front of the cameras

Fresh details over Donald Trump's awkward handshake with Emmanuel Macron at the Gaza peace summit in Egypt has emerged.

The pair shook hands in Sharm El-Sheikh in Egypt on Monday as the US President signed the first phase of the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel.


The "death clasp" handshakes between Mr Trump and Mr Macron have gone viral over the years.

A video from 2017 showed the two leaders were locking hands for 29 seconds straight.

The US President drew Mr Macron in for a handshake before they each placed their opposite hand on the other's upper arm.

However, the embrace turned into what appeared to be an arm wrestle.

The two leaders seemed to share an intense conversation while the other hand swung side to side.

Mr Macron eventually got himself out of Mr Trump's grasp and exited.

\u200bEmmanuel Macron and Donald Trump shaking hands in Egypt

Emmanuel Macron and Donald Trump had an awkward embrace in Egypt

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PA

Lip reader Nicola Hickling told the Daily Mail that the handshake was more than just a casual greeting between the two presidents.

"Nice to see you, so you agreed?" Mr Trump told Mr Macron.

The French President turned away and his response was inaudible.

"Are you being genuine?" Mr Trump asked the French President who responded: "Of course".

Donald Trump's speech included an awkward exchange with Sir Keir Starmer

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PA

Mr Trump tightened his grip with the French President, appearing to say: "Okay, so now I want to know why, you hurt me. I already know".

The US President squeezes Mr Macron's hand who then looks down and away from the cameras.

It is unclear what the duo were speaking about.

However, it comes weeks after Mr Macron was seen mocking the US President with other world leaders.

The leaders have a notable history together.

Exchanges have appeared friendly, although they have criticised each other publicly.

Mr Trump told Mr Macron: "I am making peace".

The French President tapped Mr Trump's hand and replied: "Ah come on".

"I only hurt those who hurt others," the US President appeared to tell Mr Macron.

The French President replied: "I see. We will have to see about that."

It prompted Mr Trump to say: "You will see what is about to happen."

"I'd like to see you do it, do it. I'll see you in a bit," the US President concluded.

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