Former U.S. President Donald Trump has called for the cancellation of the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas if all remaining hostages in Gaza are not released by midday on Saturday. Speaking to reporters, Trump warned, “If they’re not here, all hell is going to break out.” However, he acknowledged that the decision ultimately rests with Israel, stating, “I’m speaking for myself. Israel can override it.”
Controversial Remarks on Gaza and Palestinian Refugees
In a separate Fox News interview, Trump reiterated his controversial plan for U.S. “ownership” of Gaza, proposing to redevelop the region while denying Palestinians the right to return. He suggested temporarily relocating Palestinians to safer areas while envisioning Gaza as a future “real estate development” project.
Arab nations, including Egypt and Jordan, have strongly rejected the idea of transferring Palestinians, citing security concerns and its impact on the two-state solution. Egypt’s Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its position, stressing that Palestinian self-determination and the right of return are fundamental.
Backlash from Hamas and International Critics
Hamas official Izzat al-Rishq dismissed Trump’s remarks as “absurd”, accusing him of treating the Palestinian issue “like a real estate deal.” He vowed that “Palestinians will thwart all transfer and deportation plans.”
Meanwhile, the White House and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have sought to clarify Trump’s position, insisting that any Palestinian relocations would be temporary to facilitate debris clearance and reconstruction.
Trump’s comments come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilize the ceasefire and secure humanitarian aid for Gaza. However, his statements risk escalating tensions as the Israel-Hamas conflict remains volatile.
