US President Donald Trump called on Israel to end the Gaza ceasefire and resume fighting if all remaining hostages are not freed by Saturday. His remarks came after Hamas announced a delay in releasing hostages, raising concerns about the truce’s stability.
Speaking to reporters, Trump acknowledged Israel might disregard his ultimatum but stressed urgency, fearing for the hostages’ survival. “If all of the hostages aren’t returned by Saturday at 12 o’clock, I think it’s an appropriate time. I’d say cancel it, and all bets are off—let hell break out,” he stated.
Hamas claimed Israeli violations of the hostage-ceasefire deal as the reason for delaying the release, further complicating negotiations. Trump voiced frustration over the deteriorating condition of freed hostages, describing them as gaunt and mentally abused.
Despite having previously supported the staggered release deal, Trump appeared to change his stance, rejecting partial releases. “We want them all back,” he said. “Saturday at 12 o’clock, and after that, it’s going to be a different ballgame.”
The situation remains tense, with uncertainty over whether the truce will hold or if Israel will escalate military action in response to Trump’s call.
