Trump Issues Final Warning to Hamas: Release Hostages or Face Consequences.
Washington, D.C. – U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stern ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of all Israeli hostages by Saturday afternoon. In a high-stakes press conference at the Oval Office, Trump warned that if Hamas fails to comply, he will propose canceling the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, giving Israel a free hand to respond with force.
Trump’s remarks come amid ongoing peace talks between Israel and Hamas, brokered by international mediators. Expressing frustration over Hamas’ reluctance to release hostages, Trump declared, “As far as I’m concerned, if all the hostages are not returned by 12 o’clock on Saturday, then let mayhem ensue.” His statement signals a significant escalation in U.S. support for Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
- Hamas Under Pressure to Release Hostages
- Trump Threatens to Cut Aid to Jordan and Egypt
- Trump’s ‘Gaza Plan’ Sparks Controversy
- Global Reaction to Trump’s Hardline Stance
- Israel’s Response to Trump’s Statement
Hamas Under Pressure to Release Hostages
The President’s warning follows the deteriorating condition of three Israeli hostages recently released by Hamas on January 8. Trump emphasized that he expects all hostages to be freed at once, rather than in small batches. “We want everyone to come back. Not some, not a few, but all,” he stated.
The ongoing ceasefire agreement, facilitated by Egypt and Qatar, mandates a hostage-prisoner exchange: Hamas is to release Israeli hostages in return for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. So far, five such exchanges have taken place. However, Hamas recently announced a halt to the release of hostages, citing Israel’s alleged violations of the agreement.
Trump Threatens to Cut Aid to Jordan and Egypt
In a move that could reshape regional dynamics, Trump has also threatened to cut U.S. aid to Jordan and Egypt if they refuse to accept Palestinian refugees from Gaza. “We give billions of dollars annually to both countries. If they don’t take them, we will reconsider our financial support,” Trump warned.
This statement comes ahead of Trump’s scheduled meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah on Tuesday, where Gaza’s humanitarian crisis is expected to be a key topic. Jordan and Egypt have so far resisted U.S. pressure to resettle Palestinians, arguing that it would legitimize Israel’s displacement of Gaza’s population.
Trump’s ‘Gaza Plan’ Sparks Controversy
Trump’s latest remarks contradict earlier statements from White House officials, who had suggested that any Palestinian displacement would be temporary. Trump, however, made it clear that under his proposed plan, Palestinians would not be allowed to return to Gaza. “No, they should not because they will get better housing elsewhere,” he said, suggesting that the U.S. would work to find a permanent resettlement solution for displaced Palestinians.
The proposal, unveiled during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on January 4, includes plans for U.S. oversight of Gaza’s reconstruction. Trump has emphasized that Gaza would be redeveloped economically once Palestinians are resettled elsewhere, a notion that has been met with strong opposition from regional leaders and human rights organizations.
Global Reaction to Trump’s Hardline Stance
Trump’s ultimatum and Gaza resettlement proposal have sparked widespread condemnation. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed the plan as “a scam” and reiterated his opposition to the forced displacement of Palestinians. Scholz’s remarks came during a televised debate on Sunday ahead of Germany’s upcoming elections, where Trump’s foreign policy has become a heated topic.
Meanwhile, NATO allies have expressed concerns over Trump’s approach, warning that it could destabilize the region further. French and British officials have called for a diplomatic resolution, emphasizing that any peace plan must ensure the rights of Palestinian civilians.
Israel’s Response to Trump’s Statement
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has welcomed Trump’s firm stance, reaffirming Israel’s right to defend itself. Netanyahu previously suggested that Palestinians could be relocated to Saudi Arabia, an idea that has been widely rejected by the international community.
Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) continue their military operations in Gaza, targeting Hamas strongholds. With Trump’s latest endorsement of Israeli military action, the situation in the region remains tense.
What’s Next?
With the Saturday deadline fast approaching, all eyes are on Hamas and whether the group will comply with Trump’s demand. If the hostages are not released, a renewed military escalation in Gaza appears inevitable. Trump’s hardline approach has further cemented U.S. support for Israel, but it has also raised serious questions about the long-term implications for Middle East stability.
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