President-elect Donald Trump issued a strong ultimatum to Hamas on Monday, demanding the immediate release of hostages held in Gaza, with a stark warning of severe repercussions if his call is not heeded before his January 20, 2025, inauguration.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump expressed outrage at the continued captivity of hostages and vowed decisive action if the situation persists.
“Everybody is talking about the hostages who are being held so violently, inhumanely, and against the will of the entire World, in the Middle East—but it’s all talk, and no action! Let this Truth serve as a clear warning: if the hostages are not released before January 20, 2025, the day I proudly assume office, there will be all hell to pay in the Middle East and for those responsible for these atrocities against humanity,” Trump declared.
He continued, “Those responsible will be hit harder than anyone has been hit in the long history of the United States. Release the hostages now!”
Hamas has reportedly taken over 250 hostages during its attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which left 1,200 Israelis dead in the deadliest assault in the country’s history. Israeli officials confirm that about 100 hostages remain in captivity, with some confirmed dead.
The ongoing conflict has taken a devastating toll on Gaza, with Israeli airstrikes reportedly killing over 44,400 Palestinians and displacing nearly 90% of the territory’s 2.3 million residents, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Large portions of the enclave have been destroyed, escalating the humanitarian crisis.
While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not responded to Trump’s comments, President Isaac Herzog expressed gratitude, stating on social media, “Thank you and bless you, Mr. President-elect @realDonaldTrump. We all pray for the moment we see our sisters and brothers back home!”
Hamas has tied the release of hostages to a cessation of Israeli military operations and a withdrawal from Gaza, a demand Israel has so far refused.
The Biden administration has been involved in diplomacy, facilitating a tenuous ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. However, negotiations with Hamas have seen little progress.
Trump’s warning follows the confirmation of the death of Omer Neutra, a dual US-Israeli citizen whose remains are believed to be in Gaza, and a video released by Hamas featuring Edan Alexander, an Israeli soldier held hostage, pleading for intervention.
With both sides remaining entrenched, Trump’s allies are hopeful for a resolution before his inauguration, though the situation remains volatile, with no compromise in sight.
