US President Donald Trump made a clear demand on Monday that Hamas must release all hostages by noon on Saturday. If they fail to do so, he warned that he would recommend canceling the Israel-Hamas truce, which would “let hell break out.” Trump emphasized the urgency, stating, "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." He stressed that he wanted all hostages released at once. “We want ’em all back,” he added.
Trump Threatens Aid Cuts to Jordan and Egypt
In addition, Trump issued a stern warning to Jordan and Egypt. He said he might withhold aid from both countries if they fail to accept Palestinian refugees being relocated from Gaza. Trump is set to meet with Jordan's King Abdullah on Tuesday to discuss this matter further.
US Takeover of Gaza Faces Confusion
Meanwhile, Trump’s proposal for a U.S.-led takeover of Gaza caused some confusion. He stated that Palestinians would not have the right to return to Gaza. This contradicted previous comments from his officials, who suggested that the displacement would only be temporary. Trump clarified, "No, they wouldn’t because they’re going to have much better housing."
A Bold Plan for Gaza
Trump unveiled a bold plan to resettle Gaza’s 2.2 million Palestinians, with the U.S. redeveloping the area into the "Riviera of the Middle East." This proposal, however, has been widely rejected. Gaza residents and Arab nations, as well as rights groups and the UN, have condemned it as ethnic cleansing.
Hamas Reacts
Hamas quickly reacted to Trump’s remarks. Senior official Sami Abu Zuhri called the idea “irresponsible,” adding, “We affirm that such plans are capable of igniting the region.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on the other hand, supported the proposal but suggested that Palestinians could return after they were relocated. He said they could leave, return, or relocate as part of rebuilding Gaza.
Rubio and the State Department Weigh In
Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, preparing for his upcoming Middle East visit, indicated that Palestinians could temporarily live elsewhere during Gaza’s reconstruction. However, he did not rule out their permanent displacement. The State Department has yet to provide clarity on the disparity between Rubio and Trump’s statements regarding this plan.
Ceasefire at Risk
Trump’s comments come as the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas faces collapse. Hamas declared it would stop releasing hostages, citing alleged Israeli violations of the agreement. Meanwhile, Egypt and Jordan have expressed concerns that any plan to relocate Palestinians would destabilize the entire region.
Trump’s Real Estate Vision
Lastly, Trump suggested that between two and six new communities could be built for Palestinians, away from the conflict zone. "Think of it as a real estate development for the future," he said. "It would be a beautiful piece of land. No big money spent."President Trump demands Hamas release all hostages by Saturday or face the collapse of the Israel-Hamas truce, while proposing a controversial U.S. takeover of Gaza.