Last Minute Drama in Gaza: Will Captive Exchange Happen at Trump’s Deadline?
US President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Hamas regarding the release of Israeli prisoners in Gaza. Speaking at the White House, Trump stated, “I don’t know what will happen at 12.00. I would take a very hard attitude.” He emphasized that Hamas must release all hostages and attributed their change in stance to the pressure they are facing.
Trump set a deadline of 12.00 on Saturday for the release of the prisoners and warned that if this deadline is not met, there will be severe consequences. He stated that all hostages in Hamas must be released, or else the ceasefire will be canceled.
The US President also criticized Hamas for their treatment of prisoners and the condition in which the released prisoners were found. He underscored the importance of the upcoming captive exchange on February 15, where 369 Palestinian prisoners are expected to be released for 3 Israeli prisoners.
Hamas had initially suspended the captive exchange due to Israel’s commitment to the ceasefire agreement, but later announced that they would proceed with the exchange within the terms of the agreement. However, Trump’s ultimatum has put pressure on the situation, with Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu also threatening to end the ceasefire if the prisoners are not released.
Trump further stated that the US will take control of Gaza and hold it under their authority, indicating a potential shift in the region’s dynamics. The developments surrounding the release of prisoners in Gaza continue to unfold, with international attention focused on the situation.
