Trump Warns Hamas of Severe Consequences if Hostages Are Not Freed by Saturday
Trump Warns Hamas: “Hell Will Break Out” if Hostages Are Not Released by Saturday
Washington DC [US], February 11 (ANI):
United States President Donald Trump issued a strong warning to Hamas on Monday, stating that Israel should abandon the ongoing ceasefire and resume military action if all hostages are not released by Saturday. His comments come after Hamas announced a delay in the scheduled hostage release, citing Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement.
Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas
Speaking to reporters, Trump emphasized that if hostages are not freed by noon on Saturday, Israel should call off the ceasefire and take decisive military action. “As far as I am 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 declared.
He also mentioned that while Israel might choose to disregard his ultimatum, he is considering speaking directly with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the situation.
Hamas Delays Hostage Release
Hamas had earlier announced that the next group of Israeli hostages, scheduled for release on Saturday, would not be freed “until further notice.” The militant group claimed that Israel had violated the ongoing ceasefire agreement and demanded that Israel compensate for previous alleged breaches before any further exchanges take place.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Abu Obeida, spokesman for Hamas’ Qassam Brigades, confirmed the delay. “We affirm our commitment to the terms of the agreement as long as the occupation commits to them,” he said, adding that Israel must retroactively fulfill its obligations for the past weeks.
Despite the delay, Hamas later indicated that the release could still proceed if Israel complied with the agreement in full. The group described the delay as a “warning” meant to pressure Israel into honoring the ceasefire terms.
“Hamas aims to grant mediators sufficient time to pressure the occupation to fulfill its obligations. This also leaves the door open for the exchange to proceed as planned, provided the occupation complies,” Hamas said in a statement, as reported by CNN.
Trump Compares Hostages to Holocaust Survivors
During his remarks, Trump drew comparisons between the released hostages and Holocaust survivors, describing their dire condition upon returning to Israel.
“Hamas has been a disaster. By the way, I have to tell you that I watched the hostages come back today, and they looked like Holocaust survivors. They were in horrible condition. They were emaciated,” Trump stated.
He further condemned Hamas for the treatment of the captives, emphasizing the psychological and physical toll on them. “They have been treated brutally, horribly. Even the ones that came out earlier, they were in a little bit better shape, but mentally they were treated so badly. Who could take that? You know, at some point, we’re going to lose our patience,” he added.
Trump’s comments add further pressure to the ongoing negotiations surrounding the hostage-ceasefire deal. With Saturday’s deadline looming, global attention is now focused on whether Hamas will comply with the conditions or if tensions will escalate further in the region.
Global Reactions and Future Implications
The situation remains fluid, with international mediators attempting to salvage the hostage exchange deal. If Hamas does not proceed with the release, Israel may resume military operations, further intensifying the conflict in Gaza.
As diplomatic efforts continue, Trump’s remarks signal growing impatience from the U.S. administration, reinforcing calls for swift action. The coming days will determine whether negotiations hold or if hostilities reignite in the region.
