US President Donald Trump headed to Israel and Egypt on Sunday for a trip of great importance, describing it as “very special” as part of efforts to end the war in Gaza.

The presidential plane took off from Andrews Air Force Base near Washington in rainy weather, according to AFP journalists. Trump is accompanied on the trip by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe, according to the White House.

Speaking to reporters at Andrews Base before boarding the presidential plane, Trump said the trip would be “very special,” adding, “Everyone is very excited about this moment.”