Trump Warns Hamas: Release Hostages Now

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. Trump warned Hamas to release all hostages by Saturday.
2. Hamas accused Israel of violating the ceasefire.
3. Hamas has stopped releasing hostages.
4. Trump threatened to “let hell break out” if hostages are not released.
5. Qatar and Egypt are mediating the situation.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

US President Donald Trump warned Hamas that if all hostages held in Gaza are not released by Saturday at noon, he would propose ending the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and “let hell break out.” Trump’s warning came after Hamas announced it would stop releasing Israeli hostages until further notice. The militant organization accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement, raising concerns that fighting could resume. This latest development puts the fragile ceasefire in jeopardy.

Trump’s Reaction

Speaking to reporters at the Oval Office on Monday, Trump said, “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.” He emphasized the need for all hostages to be released, not just a few at a time.

Warning of Action Against Hamas

When a reporter asked if the President was hinting at retaliating against the Palestinian militant group, Trump replied, “You will find out, Hamas will find out what I mean. These are sick people, and they will find out what I mean Saturday at 12 pm.” Trump also mentioned he might withhold aid to Jordan and Egypt if they refuse to take in Palestinian refugees from Gaza. This adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing crisis.

Hostage Release Agreement

Under the Gaza ceasefire agreement, Hamas is expected to release more hostages on Saturday in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and detainees. This arrangement had been in place for the past three weeks. After Hamas’ announcement, families of hostages and their supporters gathered in Tel Aviv in what has become known as Hostages Square.

Israel’s Response

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said Hamas’ decision violated the ceasefire. He instructed the military to be at its highest level of readiness in Gaza and for domestic defence. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to meet with his security cabinet on Tuesday morning.

Mediators’ Concern

Two Egyptian security officials said mediators fear the agreement could collapse. Qatar and Egypt brokered the deal alongside the United States. Sixteen of the 33 hostages set to be released in the first phase of the 42-day agreement have returned home. Five Thai hostages were also released in an unscheduled move. Israel has released hundreds of prisoners and detainees in exchange, including those serving life sentences for deadly attacks and others held without charge. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, fearing a return to intense conflict.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

• Trump warned Hamas to release all hostages by Saturday.
• Hamas accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement.
• Qatar and Egypt are mediating the crisis.
• Israel’s defense minister has put the military on alert.
• There is a growing risk of the agreement collapsing.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

See Full Bio