President Donald Trump has called on Israel to cancel its ceasefire agreement with Hamas if the group does not return all hostages held in Gaza by Saturday at noon. Trump's statement follows Hamas' threat to delay the release of hostages, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire deal.
During a press briefing in the Oval Office, Trump emphasized the importance of the deadline, stating, 'If all of the hostages aren't returned by Saturday at 12 o'clock, I would say, cancel it and let all hell break out.' When asked about the potential consequences, Trump remained vague, suggesting that Hamas would find out soon enough.
Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, played a role in negotiating the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas during the previous administration. However, Trump has expressed doubts about the sustainability of the ceasefire since taking office. His recent proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza and have the United States take control of the territory has added further uncertainty to the situation.
President Trump is scheduled to meet with Jordanian King Abdullah II on Tuesday, who, along with leaders from Egypt and other Arab nations, has rejected Trump's Gaza plan outright.
