Trump Demands Hostage Release, Urges Egypt to Accept Gazan Civilians (video)
Former President Donald Trump demands Hamas release all hostages by February 15, 2025, threatening to end the ceasefire if they fail to comply. He suggested Egypt take in displaced Gazan women and children, provoking criticism. Trump’s statements strain the ceasefire further, raising fears of renewed conflict and humanitarian crises in Gaza.
hassan benyoub 
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stark ultimatum regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza, demanding the release of all hostages held by Hamas by midday Saturday, February 15, 2025. He warned that failure to comply would result in the cancellation of the ceasefire and the unleashing of "all hell" .
https://x.com/DonaldTrumpAOCC/status/1889275863973204350
Trump’s Ultimatum: A Deadline for Hostage Release
Trump’s statement came in response to Hamas’ announcement that it would delay the release of additional hostages, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement by obstructing the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza and hindering humanitarian aid deliveries . Trump emphasized that the release of hostages must occur en masse, rather than in small groups, and expressed skepticism about the condition of the remaining captives, suggesting many may already be dead .
While Trump acknowledged that the final decision to cancel the ceasefire rests with Israel, he made it clear that the U.S. would support a forceful response if Hamas fails to meet the deadline. “If they’re not here, all hell is going to break out,” Trump declared, adding, “Hamas will find out what I mean” .
Call to Egypt: A Controversial Proposal
In addition to his ultimatum, Trump urged Egypt to accept women and children from Gaza, framing this as a necessary step to allow Israel to confront Hamas directly and prevent further escalation. He suggested that Egypt and Jordan, both recipients of significant U.S. aid, should take in displaced Palestinians, even threatening to withhold financial assistance if they refuse .
Trump’s proposal has drawn sharp criticism from Arab nations and international observers, who view it as a form of forced displacement or ethnic cleansing. Egypt’s Foreign Ministry reiterated its rejection of any plan to relocate Palestinians, emphasizing the importance of preserving their right to self-determination and return to their homeland .
Regional and International Reactions
Trump’s statements have further complicated the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which was already under strain due to mutual accusations of violations. Hamas dismissed Trump’s threats, insisting that the ceasefire agreement must be respected by all parties and warning that threatening language only exacerbates tensions .
Meanwhile, international leaders, including U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, have called for an extension of the ceasefire, warning that a resumption of hostilities would lead to an “immense tragedy” . Arab nations, including Jordan and Egypt, have rejected Trump’s proposals, reaffirming their commitment to a two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state .
Implications for the Region
Trump’s ultimatum and his controversial proposal to relocate Gazan civilians have heightened tensions in the region. While his rhetoric has garnered support from some Israeli officials, it has also sparked outrage among Palestinians and their allies, who see it as a violation of international law and a threat to their aspirations for statehood .
As the Saturday deadline approaches, the international community remains on edge, with fears that the collapse of the ceasefire could reignite the conflict and lead to further humanitarian devastation in Gaza.
