Trump Issues Final Ultimatum to Hamas, Action Imminent: Middle East Envoy
TL/DR –
Donald Trump, in a series of threats and ultimatums, has called on Hamas to release all remaining Israeli hostages. Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, has stated that “there’s going to be some action taken,” possibly in conjunction with the Israelis. The Trump administration, through its top U.S. hostage negotiator Adam Boehler, has entered into direct talks with Hamas in an attempt to secure the release of the remaining captives, including Edan Alexander, the last living American hostage held by Hamas in Gaza.
Trump’s Middle East envoy indicates imminent action in Hamas negotiation.
‘There’s going to be some action taken,’ says Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. This comes in the wake of what President Donald Trump has declared as his final ultimatum to the Palestinian group Hamas, following their attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.
The final ultimatum, filled with capital-letter threats of “HELL TO PAY LATER!” was issued through a post on Trump’s social media site, Truth Social. Witkoff’s hint at ‘some action’ came after Trump had met with eight recently freed Israeli hostages. As witnessed in a video of the meeting, the former hostages expressed their belief that Trump was sent by God to rescue them.
‘I will not tolerate this type of behavior’
Witkoff, who attended the meeting, revealed the President’s disdain towards the inhumane conditions the former hostages had to endure while captive. In response to the current situation, Witkoff warned of potential joint action with Israelis against Hamas. Interestingly, he remarked that Hamas currently has the opportunity to act reasonably and extricate themselves from Gaza.
Possible Consequences of Trump’s Ultimatum
Four potential outcomes could arise from this situation. Firstly, Israel could launch an all-out attack on Gaza with Trump’s approval. Secondly, the U.S could potentially negotiate directly with Hamas, bypassing Israel. This move, however, has sparked outrage in Jerusalem. Thirdly, aid to Gaza could be cut off, forcing Hamas to negotiate terms. Finally, there is a possibility that the U.S. could take over Gaza, displacing Palestinians to nearby countries, and transforming it into a ‘Riviera of the Middle East’.
Arab Leaders Formulate Response
Arab leaders have been formulating their own response to this situation. An endorsed plan to rebuild Gaza under a future Palestinian administration led by the Palestinian Authority (PA) has been put forth. However, Israel has stated its preference for the PA to not participate in governing Gaza.
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