In a recent press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, US President-elect Donald Trump reiterated his warning to Hamas, emphasizing the urgent need for the Palestinian militant group to release American hostages before his inauguration on January 20.
Trump’s remarks came in response to a question about the status of negotiations with Hamas regarding the release of American hostages. The President-elect stressed that if the hostages are not released before he assumes office, “all hell will break out” in the Middle East
Trump’s Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steven Charles Witkoff, expressed optimism about the progress being made in the negotiations. Witkoff stated that they were “on the verge” of a breakthrough and attributed the momentum to Trump’s stature and his clearly defined expectations.
Witkoff noted that he would be returning to Doha the following day to continue the negotiations and expressed hope that they would have positive developments to announce by the inauguration.
Trump also referenced the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas, emphasizing that it should never have occurred. He condemned the taking of hostages and the treatment of victims, including a young American woman who was killed.
The President-elect reiterated his commitment to resolving the crisis, but warned that if a deal is not reached before his inauguration, the consequences would be severe.
The situation remains fluid, with negotiations ongoing. The international community is watching closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
