Donald Trump has issued a strong warning regarding the Middle East, stating there would be “all hell to pay” if hostages in Gaza are not released before his inauguration on January 20, 2025, for his second term as president.
The president-elect emphasized the urgency of a ceasefire and a hostage deal, aligning with President Joe Biden’s current efforts to secure an agreement during his remaining time in office.
On Monday, Trump took to Truth Social, writing, “Everyone is talking about the hostages being held so violently, inhumanely, and against the will of the entire world—but it’s all talk and no action!” He added, “Let this serve as a warning: if the hostages are not released before January 20, 2025, when I take office as President of the United States, there will be all hell to pay in the Middle East. Those responsible will face consequences harder than anything in the history of the United States.”
He concluded with a demand: “Release the hostages now!”
Currently, 101 hostages, including seven U.S. citizens, remain in captivity by Hamas in Gaza. Israeli intelligence believes roughly half of them are still alive. Meanwhile, Gaza’s health ministry reports that over 44,000 Palestinians have died in the ongoing conflict, which has spanned nearly 14 months.
