Trump’s Response to Hostage Situation

On Friday, President Trump addressed the situation from the Oval Office, indicating that Hamas might comply with his requests to release hostages. According to Hamas, they were prepared to release the remaining hostages and yield power if Palestinian factions reached a consensus and received backing from Arab and Muslim nations. Trump referred to this moment as “unprecedented” and a potential turning point for peace in the Middle East.

“I just want to let you know that this is a very special day. It truly is unprecedented,” he stated, expressing gratitude towards those who assisted his efforts. “We want to end this war and achieve peace in the region.”

He noted that allied nations were applying coordinated pressure on Hamas while aiming for reconciliation.

“I want to thank Qatar, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and others for their support. We’ll see how this unfolds,” he continued. “It’s crucial that we focus on bringing the hostages home, where they belong. Unfortunately, their exact locations are unclear.”

On the same day, Trump issued an ultimatum to Hamas, suggesting they must agree to a ceasefire framework by 6 PM Eastern Time on Sunday or forfeit the deal altogether. “If we finalize this agreement, there will be consequences for Hamas like they have never experienced,” Trump wrote.

In Gaza, Palestinians urged Hamas to accept the ceasefire terms as a means to end prolonged instability. UN reports indicate that over 33,000 Palestinians have been displaced due to Israeli actions, with a significant portion of Gaza’s population facing hunger.

As part of Trump’s proposal, Hamas has requested that all prisoners be released promptly and that governance in Gaza be transferred to “International Stabilization Forces.” The outlined plan also includes the participation of Palestinian experts in governance through new international organizations.