Trump Warns of Severe Consequences if Gaza Hostages Remain Captive Before Inauguration

President-elect Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Gaza militants, declaring there will be “hell to pay” if hostages are not freed before his inauguration on January 20, 2025.

Trump made the statement via his Truth Social platform, emphasizing his commitment to Israel and his readiness to act decisively in the Middle East.

“If the hostages are not released prior to January 20, 2025, the date that I proudly assume Office as President of the United States, there will be ALL HELL TO PAY in the Middle East, and for those in charge who perpetrated these atrocities against Humanity,” Trump wrote.

He added, “Those responsible will be hit harder than anybody has been hit in the long and storied History of the United States of America. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW!”

Trump’s remarks come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts by outgoing President Joe Biden’s administration to end the hostilities in Gaza and secure the release of hostages.

Despite these efforts, no agreement has been reached, leaving the situation unresolved 14 months after the initial attacks.

The crisis began with a Hamas-led assault on Israel on October 7, 2023, which claimed 1,208 lives, mostly civilians, according to official Israeli figures.

During the attack, militants captured 251 hostages, some of whom were later confirmed dead.

According to the Israeli military, 97 hostages remain in Gaza, including 35 believed to have been killed.

Israel’s military response to the attack has led to widespread destruction in Gaza, with the territory’s health ministry reporting 44,429 deaths.

These figures have been deemed reliable by the United Nations.

Trump, known for his vocal support of Israel, has also expressed interest in leveraging his presidency to achieve broader global agreements.

His administration has pledged unwavering support for Israel while criticizing Biden’s handling of the crisis.

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