Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Jan 8: US president-elect Donald Trump delivered a stark warning to Hamas on Tuesday, declaring that “all hell will break out in the Middle East” if the militant group does not release hostages it is holding in Gaza before his inauguration on January 20.

Speaking at a press conference from his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump expressed his outrage over the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, which resulted in significant loss of life and the abduction of hostages.

"It will not be good for Hamas, and it will not be good, frankly, for anyone," Trump stated. "All hell will break out. I don't have to say any more, but that's what it is."

Ongoing negotiations and challenges

Steve Witkoff, Trump’s newly appointed special envoy to the Middle East, shared optimism about ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas. “It’s the president, his reputation, the things that he has said that are driving this negotiation,” Witkoff said, adding hope for a resolution that could save lives.

However, a senior official from the outgoing Biden administration painted a grimmer picture, describing the negotiations as “difficult” and the prospects of a breakthrough as uncertain. The official refrained from providing specific updates on the status of talks, highlighting the complex nature of the discussions.

Trump’s ambitions beyond the Middle East

During the same press conference, Trump addressed questions about his geopolitical strategy, refusing to rule out military action to secure US control of the Panama Canal or Greenland. He also reiterated his earlier remarks about using “economic force” to bring Canada under US influence.

When pressed for clarity, Trump stated, “I can’t assure you on either of those two [military or economic force], but I can say this, we need them for economic security.”

Trump’s comments have already stirred global debate, with critics questioning the implications of his proposed actions and allies awaiting further clarity as his administration prepares to take office on January 20.