President-elect Donald Trump has issued a stern demand for the immediate release of Israeli hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza. Trump warned that if the captives are not freed before his second term begins on January 20, 2025, there would be severe repercussions.
In a post on his social media platform, Trump wrote, "Please let this TRUTH serve to represent that if the hostages are not released prior to January 20, 2025, the date that I proudly assume Office as President of the United States, there will be ALL HELL TO PAY in the Middle East, and for those in charge who perpetrated these atrocities against Humanity." He added that those responsible would face unprecedented consequences, stating, "Those responsible will be hit harder than anybody has been hit in the long and storied History of the United States of America. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW!"
Mixed Responses to Trump's Remarks
While the Israeli government has not officially commented, Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed gratitude for Trump's stance. In a social media post, Herzog wrote, "Thank you and bless you Mr. President-elect @realDonaldTrump. We all pray for the moment we see our sisters and brothers back home!"
The crisis began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched a large-scale attack on southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people, primarily civilians, and taking around 250 hostages. While some hostages have since been released, about 100 are still in Gaza, with around two-thirds believed to be alive.
Recent Developments
Trump's comments follow the Israeli government’s confirmation of the death of Omer Neutra, a dual US-Israeli citizen whose body is reportedly still in Hamas's custody. Additionally, Hamas recently released a video showing Edan Alexander, an Israeli soldier captured during the October 7 attacks, calling on Trump to negotiate the release of hostages.
Meanwhile, the Biden administration is pushing to revive talks between Israel and Hamas. Efforts to negotiate hostage releases have stalled, with Hamas showing little interest in reengaging.
The ongoing war has had devastating consequences for Gaza, leaving at least 44,429 Palestinians dead, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. The conflict has displaced 90% of the enclave's 2.3 million residents, with large areas reduced to rubble.
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