President-elect Donald Trump, at a press conference in Palm Beach, Florida, warned that “all hell will break out in the Middle East” if Hamas does not release the hostages it holds in Gaza by his inauguration on January 20, 2025. He emphasized the urgency of securing the release of nearly 100 hostages, some presumed dead, stating that inaction would have dire consequences for Hamas and the broader situation. Trump’s comments came as his designated Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, reported progress in negotiations in Doha, Qatar, regarding the hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, Hamas incursion into Israel. Witkoff, who indicated his belief in nearing success, is set to continue negotiations despite Trump not officially taking office yet. Meanwhile, Hamas insists that any hostage release is contingent on Israel ceasing military operations in Gaza, while Israel maintains that the offensive will persist until the hostages are freed and Hamas dismantled. Witkoff expressed hope that positive developments would emerge before the inauguration, suggesting Trump’s previous statements have influenced the negotiation dynamics. He articulated an optimistic outlook, stating that they aim to announce progress that could save lives.
