Donald Trump reiterated his warning that “all hell will break out” if Hamas does not release the hostages it is holding in Gaza, while his Middle East envoy expressed optimism about a potential ceasefire agreement that could result in the release of some captives.
Speaking at a press conference, the president-elect and his chosen envoy, real estate mogul Steve Witkoff, discussed the ongoing negotiations. Witkoff, who is actively involved in the talks, mentioned progress being made in Doha, Qatar, where discussions are taking place.
Witkoff stated, “I think we’re making a lot of progress, and I’m hopeful that by the inauguration, we’ll have positive announcements on behalf of the president.”
Securing a hostage release and ceasefire agreement is a top priority for both outgoing President Joe Biden and Trump. However, previous negotiations have experienced setbacks despite initial progress. Trump issued a warning to Hamas, urging the release of the hostages, some of whom are believed to have died, before he assumes office on Jan. 20.
He emphasized, “If those hostages are not returned by the time I take office, there will be significant consequences in the Middle East, which will not bode well for Hamas or anyone else.” Trump also mentioned receiving calls from relatives of deceased hostages seeking assistance in recovering their loved ones’ remains.
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