Trump Demands Hamas Release Hostages Before January 20 or Face Severe Consequences

The incoming U.S. president issues an ultimatum, warning of unprecedented retaliation if hostages held in Gaza are not freed before his inauguration.

Donald Trump, set to take office as U.S. president on January 20, 2025, has demanded Hamas release all hostages held in Gaza by that date.
Trump warned on Truth Social that failure to comply would result in severe and historic consequences for those responsible for the atrocities.
Approximately 97 hostages remain in Hamas custody, with reports suggesting many may not have survived since their abduction in October 2023.
The Biden administration has been working unsuccessfully for months to broker a deal for the release of hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza.
The ongoing conflict has seen heavy casualties on both sides, with over 44,000 reported deaths in Gaza according to Hamas, though these figures are unverified.