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On Wednesday, Melania Trump had the honor of welcoming Keith Siegel and his wife, Aviva, to the White House. The couple, who were recently freed after being held hostage by Hamas, have a significant connection to Melania’s newly released film.
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Despite her appearance with the Siegels at the White House, the first lady dismissed any notion that she was using the occasion to promote her self-titled documentary. Nevertheless, both Melania and the former captives made mention of the film, which premiered in theaters on Friday during their public remarks.
The documentary, titled “Melania,” highlights a poignant meeting between the first lady and Aviva Siegel. In the film, Melania discusses Keith’s harrowing time in captivity and her efforts that eventually contributed to his release.
Reflecting on her interaction with Aviva, Melania expressed the depth of feeling involved, describing it as “an emotional meeting.” This encounter is featured in the documentary, offering viewers a glimpse into the emotional and political intricacies captured in “Melania.”
She praised Aviva’s dedication to her husband. “Aviva was a warrior. She is a warrior. She was fighting very hard for Keith. And I know he suffered a lot.” And told Keith: “I’m happy to see you healthy at home with your children, with your grandchildren, with your family.”
Both Keith and Aviva mentioned the film when they thanked Melania Trump for her support.
“I want to thank you for being a caring, compassionate person and for supporting and helping Aviva,” he said.
“I also want to end by congratulating you on the release of your movie. So much looking forward to seeing it, and so grateful for you deciding to have Aviva be a part of your movie. Thank you.”
Aviva added in her thanks: “I knew how important it was for you to go back home and talk to President Trump and sharing your feelings. So I want to thank you for that, and I want to thank you for putting me in your special Melania film.”
The first lady denied the event was a business promotion when pressed by a reporter.
“This is not promotion,” she said. “We are here celebrating the release of the hostages of Aviva and Keith. They were in Washington, DC, and they called me. They called me. They said they would like to come over to thank me and to give hugs, and that’s why we’re doing it. It’s nothing to do with promotion.”