Former President Donald Trump has issued a stern ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of all Israeli hostages held in Gaza.
Trump declared that if the hostages are not freed by Saturday at noon, there would be serious consequences, warning, “all hell is going to break loose.“
When asked for specifics on what actions he planned to take, Trump responded cryptically, stating, “You’ll find out, and they’ll find out too. Hamas will find out what I mean.”
However, he later clarified that while ending the ceasefire was ultimately Israel’s decision, he believed it would be “appropriate” to terminate the agreement if the hostages were not released by the deadline.
Hamas Accuses Israel of Violating Ceasefire
On Monday, Hamas announced a delay in the next planned hostage release, citing violations of the ceasefire agreement by Israel.
According to Abu Obeida, spokesperson for the Al-Qassam Brigades, the Israeli government had breached the truce by:
- Blocking the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza
- Conducting airstrikes and gunfire across various locations
- Hindering the entry of humanitarian aid
Israel Responds: Ceasefire Agreement Under Threat
Following Hamas’ accusations, Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, condemned the delay as a “complete violation” of the ceasefire agreement. He also instructed the Israeli military to maintain high alert in case of further escalation.
Meanwhile, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that the government remains committed to upholding its side of the six-week ceasefire deal.
The agreement, originally brokered between Israel and Hamas, included a hostage-prisoner exchange, with dozens of hostages captured on October 7, 2023, being released in exchange for approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.
Trump Demands Release of All Hostages
Trump intensified his stance on Monday, insisting that Hamas must free all remaining hostages rather than continuing with partial releases. He criticized the current exchange strategy, which involves the gradual return of hostages in small numbers.
- “They ought to be returned by 12 o’clock on Saturday,” Trump emphasized.
- “Not in drips and drabs, not two and one and three and four and two.”
The Impact of Hostage Exchanges
Since the implementation of the ceasefire, five prisoner swaps have been carried out, resulting in the release of 18 Israeli hostages and over 730 Palestinian prisoners. Among the freed individuals was Keith Siegel, an Israeli-American citizen.
The most recent exchange on February 8 raised significant concerns after three male hostages returned in an emaciated condition.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum issued a statement condemning their treatment, asserting that the men had “endured hell itself.”
Trump’s Role in Ceasefire Negotiations
The ceasefire agreement was mediated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. However, Trump’s recent comments on Gaza may have complicated ongoing negotiations.
Last week, he suggested that the United States could “take over” Gaza, a remark that drew international backlash.
- While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration has not dismissed Trump’s proposal, many nations have strongly condemned it.
- Neighboring countries have expressed concerns, particularly regarding Trump’s suggestion that Gaza’s population be relocated.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 7, 2023 | Hamas captures hostages during attack on Israel |
| January 2024 | Israel and Hamas agree to a six-week ceasefire |
| February 8, 2024 | Hostage exchange occurs, raising health concerns |
| February 10, 2024 | Hamas delays the next release, blaming Israel |
| February 12, 2024 | Trump issues an ultimatum to Hamas |
The ongoing Israel-Hamas ceasefire faces an uncertain future as Trump’s ultimatum adds further tension. While negotiations for additional hostage exchanges continue, Hamas accuses Israel of ceasefire violations, while Israel maintains its commitment to the original agreement.
Whether Trump’s demand for full hostage release will influence Hamas’ next move remains to be seen, but the international community is watching closely as the situation unfolds.
FAQs
1. What did Trump say about the Israel-Hamas ceasefire?
Trump warned that if all Israeli hostages were not released by Saturday at noon, the ceasefire could collapse, stating, “all hell is going to break loose.”
2. Why did Hamas delay the hostage release?
Hamas accused Israel of violating the ceasefire by targeting Palestinians with airstrikes, blocking humanitarian aid, and preventing displaced Palestinians from returning home.
3. How many hostage exchanges have taken place so far?
Since the ceasefire began, five exchanges have been conducted, freeing 18 Israeli hostages and over 730 Palestinian prisoners.
