U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Hamas, demanding that the militant group release all hostages held in Gaza by midday Saturday or risk the cancellation of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire.
Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump stated that if the hostages were not freed by the deadline, he would advocate for an end to the truce, allowing full-scale military action to resume.
“As far as I’m concerned, if all of the hostages aren’t returned by Saturday at 12 o’clock, I think it’s an appropriate time. I would say, cancel it and all bets are off and let hell break out,” Trump said.
Expressing frustration over Hamas’s decision to halt further hostage releases, Trump indicated that he might discuss the matter with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He also emphasized that hostages should be released en masse rather than in small groups.
Additionally, Trump suggested that U.S. aid to Jordan and Egypt could be reconsidered if the two countries refused to take in Palestinian refugees fleeing Gaza. He is scheduled to meet with Jordan’s King Abdullah on Tuesday.
The president’s remarks also sparked confusion regarding his stance on Gaza’s future governance. While Trump proposed a U.S.-led redevelopment plan for the enclave, he contradicted his own officials by stating that displaced Palestinians would not have the right to return. Instead, he hinted at striking a deal with Jordan and Egypt to permanently relocate them, citing the billions of dollars in aid the U.S. provides to both nations.
The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has resulted in mounting tensions, with diplomatic efforts struggling to secure a long-term resolution.
