Trump Pushes for Hostage Release Before Inauguration with Threats of Severe Consequences

The president-elect's team joins ongoing negotiations, signaling a tough stance as the hostage crisis in Gaza continues.

President-elect Donald Trump has warned of significant repercussions in the Middle East if Hamas does not release all remaining hostages before his January 20 inauguration.
Negotiations involving both the outgoing Biden administration and Trump’s incoming team are underway in Qatar, focusing on a potential ceasefire and the release of 34 hostages, though doubts remain about how many are still alive.
Trump’s incoming Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is working alongside Biden’s team, with both sides expressing cautious optimism about reaching a deal before the transition of power.
Hamas leadership has been resistant, reportedly valuing the hostages as leverage, while U.S. officials continue to pressure the group to make a political decision to proceed with the deal.
Trump’s public rhetoric, including his promise that 'all hell will break out,' is seen as applying additional pressure on Hamas, with analysts questioning how he will act if the crisis remains unresolved after his inauguration.