Trump backs ‘hard stance’ on Gaza, says he does not know what Israel will do | Arab News
US President Donald Trump emphasizes a hardline approach to the Gaza hostage situation, while Israel and Hamas navigate a fragile ceasefire deal. Discover the latest updates on the ongoing negotiations and Trump’s role in the crisis.
Washington, D.C. – US President Donald Trump has reiterated his tough stance on the Gaza hostage crisis, urging Hamas to release all remaining captives. Speaking from the Oval Office on Friday, Trump expressed uncertainty about Israel’s next steps but emphasized his commitment to applying pressure on Hamas.
Trump’s Deadline and Its Impact
Earlier this week, Trump set a noon deadline for Saturday, warning of severe consequences if Hamas failed to release the remaining hostages. This move came after the terror group initially threatened to backtrack on its agreement to free three captives.
“If it was up to me, I’d take a very hard stance. I can’t tell you what Israel is going to do,” Trump told reporters. He credited his deadline for prompting Hamas to reverse its decision, stating, “Now I understand that Hamas has totally changed. They want to release hostages again.”
The three hostages scheduled for release on Saturday are Sagui Dekel-Chen, Sasha Troufanov, and Iair Horn. Once freed, six more captives believed to be alive are expected to be released by March 1, as per the ceasefire agreement brokered last month.
Key Developments in the Hostage Crisis
- Trump’s Role: The US president has been actively involved in pushing for the release of hostages, leveraging his influence to pressure Hamas.
- Hamas’s Shift: Initially resistant, Hamas has now agreed to release the hostages, citing Trump’s deadline as a turning point.
- Ongoing Negotiations: Mediators are working to expedite the release of the remaining six hostages, with talks expected to continue into next week.
Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff’s Efforts
Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, has been instrumental in advancing the negotiations. According to Channel 12 news, Witkoff is working to secure the release of the remaining hostages as early as next week. He has also met with key figures, including GOP mega-donor Miriam Adelson, who has been a vocal advocate for the hostages’ cause.
What’s Next for the Ceasefire Deal?
The first phase of the ceasefire agreement, brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, came into effect on January 19. The second phase, which includes the return of all remaining hostages in exchange for an end to the war, is expected to begin soon.
A Hamas official, Taher al-Nunu, confirmed on Friday that indirect negotiations with Israel would likely start “early next week.” Mediators are reportedly working to finalize the details in Doha.
Why This Matters
The Gaza hostage crisis remains a critical issue in the Middle East, with global leaders like Trump playing a pivotal role in shaping the outcome. The release of the hostages is not only a humanitarian priority but also a key step toward de-escalating tensions in the region.
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