U.S. President Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum to Hamas, demanding that all hostages held in Gaza be released by Saturday at noon, or he will propose canceling the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and “let hell break out.”
Trump’s Ultimatum and Threat to Cut Aid
Speaking in the Oval Office while signing executive orders, Trump warned that if Hamas does not comply, he would push for Israel to resume military operations.
“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.
Trump also reiterated his controversial plan to relocate Palestinians from Gaza permanently. He warned that he could cut U.S. aid to Jordan and Egypt if they refused to accept Palestinian refugees.
Confusion Over Trump’s Plan for Gaza
Trump’s comments added to ongoing confusion over his proposal for a U.S.-led redevelopment of Gaza. While his officials had previously suggested that any displacement would be temporary, Trump contradicted this by stating that Palestinians would not have the right to return.
In an interview with Fox News, Trump said:
“No, they wouldn’t [return] because they’re going to have much better housing. I’m talking about building a permanent place for them.”
Trump claims he can make a deal with Jordan and Egypt, referencing the billions of dollars in U.S. aid they receive annually.
Global Backlash and Arab Rejection
Arab states and Palestinian leaders have strongly opposed Trump’s plan, with Egypt and Jordan warning that mass displacement would destabilize the region. The United Nations and human rights groups have condemned the proposal, with some describing it as ethnic cleansing.
Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri denounced Trump’s remarks as “irresponsible,” warning that they could ignite further conflict. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared to distance himself from Trump’s latest statement, suggesting that Palestinians could leave but also return after Gaza is rebuilt.
Ceasefire on the Brink of Collapse
Trump’s ultimatum comes amid rising tensions, as Hamas announced on Monday that it would halt further hostage releases, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement.
With Trump pushing for Palestinian relocation and the collapse of the truce, his stance risks deepening instability in an already volatile region.
