Lagatar24 Desk
Washington: US President Donald Trump has issued a stern ultimatum to Hamas, warning that “all hell will break loose” if the militant group fails to release all remaining hostages by noon on Saturday. Trump stated that if Hamas does not comply, he would support Israel’s decision to cancel the ongoing ceasefire.
“If all of the hostages aren’t returned by Saturday 12 o’clock, I would say cancel it, and all bets are off—let hell break out,” Trump said, adding that while he is expressing his stance, Israel can make its own decision.
Hamas Threatens to Postpone Hostage Exchange
Earlier, a spokesperson for Hamas’s armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, announced that the next scheduled hostage release on February 15, 2025, would be postponed indefinitely.
Hamas cited Israel’s alleged failure to comply with ceasefire obligations, including humanitarian aid deliveries and the deaths of three Gazans on Sunday. The 42-day ceasefire, which began on January 19, had facilitated a series of staggered releases, with Israeli hostages exchanged for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody.
Trump: ‘US Will Take Control of Gaza’
Meanwhile, Trump reiterated his controversial plan for the US to take control of Gaza, referring to the war-torn enclave as a “big real estate site.”
“I’m committed to buying and owning Gaza,” he declared, suggesting that Arab nations could absorb displaced Palestinians.
He further added: “We may give it to other states in the Middle East to build sections of it. Other people may do it through our auspices. But we’re committed to owning it, taking it, and making sure that Hamas doesn’t move back. There’s nothing to move back into—the place is a demolition site. The remainder will be demolished.”
Global Reactions Awaited
Trump’s remarks have already triggered global concern, with critics questioning whether his aggressive stance could further escalate tensions in the region. The situation remains fluid as the deadline for Hamas to release hostages approaches.
