In an increasingly volatile situation, US President Donald Trump called for the cancellation of the fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas if the militant group does not release all hostages by midday Saturday. Trump emphasized that while he is personally advocating for this action, the final decision rests with Israel. His comments come at a time when tensions are high and the ceasefire, which has held for 15 months, remains in a precarious balance.
Trump’s remarks came after he signed a series of executive orders, warning that failing to meet the Saturday deadline would have severe consequences, suggesting that “all hell is going to break out.” His statement also expressed concern over the fate of many hostages, fearing that those scheduled for release may already be dead.
While Trump spoke firmly, he also clarified that Israel has the authority to override his call. The President’s statements risk further complicating the already strained negotiations, as Hamas has accused Israel of failing to meet its obligations. The militant group has called for pressure to be applied on Israel, especially from the US, Qatar, and Egypt, to ensure the release of the remaining hostages and the return of Palestinians to northern Gaza.
The backdrop to these remarks is an ongoing war that has ravaged Gaza for over a year and a half, with the United States, Qatar, and Egypt playing key roles as mediators. Trump’s comments have led to concerns that the ceasefire, which is meant to facilitate vital humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts for the civilian population in Gaza, could unravel.
Compounding the tension, Trump’s earlier interview with Fox News has raised eyebrows globally, as he discussed a plan for the United States to take “ownership” of Gaza, suggesting that Palestinians in the region would not have the right to return. This runs counter to the position taken by other officials in his administration, who insist that Trump’s proposal only calls for the temporary relocation of Palestinians.
As pressure mounts, Trump has also turned his focus on Arab states, including US allies Jordan and Egypt, urging them to accept Palestinians from Gaza as part of his broader solution. When asked if he would consider withholding aid from these nations if they refused to take in Palestinians, Trump did not hesitate, responding, “Yeah, maybe. Sure. Why not?”
These developments continue to add layers of complexity to an already tense geopolitical situation. As the international community watches closely, the US’s approach to resolving the crisis in Gaza will undoubtedly shape the future of the region.
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