Tue Oct 14 07:10:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing and rewriting the provided text:
**News Article:**
**”Cyrus the Great is Alive”: Trump’s Gaza Peace Role Sparks Ancient Comparisons in Israel**
**Jerusalem -** As the first stages of a Gaza peace plan progress, with US President Donald Trump lauded for his role in its development, unusual banners have appeared in Israel depicting Trump alongside the phrase “Cyrus the Great is alive.” The banners draw a parallel between Trump and the ancient Persian king Cyrus, who is revered in Jewish history for freeing Jewish exiles from Babylon in 539 BCE.
Cyrus’s capture of Babylon allowed him to issue a decree freeing captive Jews and others who had been exiled by Nebuchadnezzar II nearly 50 years prior. This act is recorded in the biblical book of Ezra and the Old Testament book of Isaiah, cementing Cyrus as a legendary figure, despite not being Jewish himself. Historians note that Cyrus’s actions aligned with his broader policy of religious tolerance and humane governance, a reputation that has persisted throughout history. The “Cyrus Cylinder,” an ancient clay tablet confirming the return of exiles, is even considered by some to be an early declaration of human rights.
The banners suggest a framing of the Gaza situation as a modern-day Babylon, with Trump cast as a new Cyrus, who is remembered for his benevolent rule, strategic prowess, and large-scale construction projects, most notably his palace complex at Pasargadae. The comparison highlights the significance of Cyrus’ legacy, particularly his historical role in Jewish history, and its resonance in contemporary political discourse.
First Piper 