United States President-elect Donald Trump issued a stern warning, vowing “hell to pay” if captives held by Hamas in Gaza are not released before his inauguration on January 20, 2025.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump criticised the current US administration, labelling its efforts as “all talk, and no action,” and signaled a shift towards a more aggressive approach to the ongoing crisis.
“If the hostages are not released prior to January 20, the date I proudly assume Office, there will be ALL HELL TO PAY in the Middle East,” Trump wrote, urging Hamas to “release the hostages now.”
The statement comes amid reports that Trump is pushing for a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas before his second term begins.
Calls for resolution
Trump’s remarks have drawn mixed reactions, with Israeli President Isaac Herzog thanking the President-elect for his support. “We all pray for the moment we see our sisters and brothers back home,” Herzog posted on X.
Hamas has previously proposed releasing captives in exchange for a halt to Israeli military operations in Gaza, but the Israeli government, under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has maintained its stance of continuing the war until Hamas is decisively defeated.
According to Israeli authorities, 101 captives remain in Gaza, while Hamas has reported that 33 captives have died since the conflict began.
Trump’s statement highlights his administration’s evolving Middle East policy. Despite campaigning on a platform of achieving peace in the region, the President-elect has yet to detail specific strategies. His first term saw strong support for Israel, including the relocation of the US embassy to Jerusalem and recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights.
Appointments for Trump’s upcoming term suggest continued pro-Israel policies, with Senator Marco Rubio slated as Secretary of State and Mike Huckabee nominated as Ambassador to Israel. Both are known for their staunch support of Israeli interests, including settlement expansions.
Renewed ceasefire talks
Efforts to secure a ceasefire have reportedly gained momentum, with Egyptian intermediaries and other international actors engaging in talks. On Monday, Hamas officials confirmed discussions with Egyptian security leaders, while Netanyahu held consultations with Israeli security chiefs.
US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan expressed cautious optimism, stating that Hamas’s isolation could present an opportunity for progress. “We may have a chance to make progress, but I’m not going to predict exactly when it will happen,” Sullivan told CNN.
Despite these developments, a lasting resolution remains uncertain. Over a year of conflict has claimed the lives of at least 44,466 Palestinians and over 1,100 Israelis, according to official estimates.
