U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas should be canceled if Hamas does not release all Israeli hostages by noon on Saturday, February 15.
Trump made the remark to reporters on Monday, February 10, noting that the final decision on this matter should be made by Israel. His comment followed a statement from Hamas claiming that further releases of hostages would be delayed due to Israel allegedly violating the ceasefire.
Trump emphasized that it was time for Israel to demand the release of all hostages by the specified deadline or resume military operations.
“If they (the hostages) are not released, all hell will break loose. Cancel the ceasefire, and the stakes are high,” he said.
However, he clarified that Israel should make the ultimate decision, adding, “I speak for myself. Israel can cancel it.”
When asked if the U.S. would join in military action if the hostages were not released, Trump replied, “Hamas will understand what I mean.”
