On Monday, Hamas announced it was postponing the exchange “until further notice,” putting the agreement in jeopardy. US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Hamas, demanding the militant group release all hostages by Saturday noon. If they fail to comply, Trump stated he would propose canceling the Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement, warning that “all hell will break loose.”
President Trump’s statement comes in response to Hamas announcing an indefinite suspension of hostage releases, originally scheduled for Saturday. The group accused Israel of allegedly violating the ceasefire terms signed three weeks ago, further escalating tensions in the region.
US and Israeli Stance on the Ceasefire
Speaking to reporters at the Oval Office on Monday, Trump made it clear that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has the final say on whether to uphold the ceasefire. However, he warned Hamas that “If they’re not here, all hell is going to break out.”
When asked if US forces would join Israel in military action against Hamas if hostages were not released, Trump responded, “Hamas will find out what I mean.” He clarified that he was speaking personally and that Israel had the authority to “override” his stance, as Tel Aviv would make the final decision. Following Hamas’ decision to suspend hostage releases, Israel’s defense minister placed the military on high alert, preparing for “any scenario in Gaza.”
Trump, who previously suggested a US takeover of Gaza and transforming it into “the Riviera of the Middle East,” reiterated his hardline stance on the region. In a Fox News interview, when asked whether Palestinians in Gaza would have a right to return, he responded, “No, they wouldn’t.”
Ceasefire Agreement at Risk
Since the ceasefire was announced on January 19, five hostage exchanges have taken place. The next swap was scheduled for Saturday, February 15. However, on Monday, February 10, Hamas announced it was postponing the exchange “until further notice,” putting the agreement in jeopardy.
This decision caused alarm among the families of the hostages, who urged mediating countries to step in and salvage the deal. Hamas’ suspension of hostage releases could derail the already fragile ceasefire.
Under the agreement, the first phase is set to expire on March 1. The second phase, which is not yet finalized, aims for the release of all captives and a permanent ceasefire. The third phase outlines a multi-year reconstruction plan for Gaza.
According to two Egyptian security sources, mediators fear the agreement may collapse. Qatar had previously warned that Trump and Netanyahu’s statements threatened the deal. Qatari diplomats sent strong messages to Israeli officials, emphasizing their stake in the agreement as key mediators and guarantors.
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