President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Hamas, demanding the release of all remaining hostages by Saturday's deadline. Trump emphasized that failure to comply would result in severe consequences and the termination of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
Trump's Ultimatum
During a recent statement, Trump stated, “If they’re not returned — all of them, not in dribs and drabs, not two and one and three and four and two — by Saturday at 12 o’clock, all hell is going to break out.” The President made it clear that the responsibility ultimately lies with Israel to determine the course of action, but Hamas will face the repercussions if the deadline is not met.
Escalating Tensions
Trump's warning comes in response to Hamas's threat to delay the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip, accusing Israel of violating the terms of the ceasefire deal. The potential postponement poses a significant challenge to the fragile agreement, especially following the recent release of three Israeli hostages after months of captivity.
Last week, Trump proposed the idea of U.S. ownership of Gaza, envisioning it as the “Riviera of the Middle East” and suggesting the relocation of nearly 2 million Palestinians from their homeland. Despite conflicting statements from his administration, Trump reiterated this proposal in a recent Fox News interview.
Implications of Trump's Statements
In his interview with Bret Baier, Trump indicated that Palestinians would not have the right to return to their homeland following a potential U.S. takeover of Gaza. These remarks have the potential to further complicate ongoing ceasefire efforts and future negotiations.
The ceasefire agreement, established in January, stipulated the gradual release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. While five groups of hostages have been freed since the ceasefire commenced, approximately 73 individuals are still believed to be held in Gaza, with uncertainty about their well-being.
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