President Donald Trump has set a firm deadline for the future of the Gaza ceasefire deal. In a statement from the Oval Office, Trump declared that if all hostages are not freed by Saturday at noon, he would consider the agreement null and void. “I’d say cancel it, and let hell break loose,” he warned.
It remains unclear whether Trump was referring to noon or midnight, or which time zone he meant. He also emphasized that he expects all hostages to be released, and not “drip-fed” in stages.
When asked by BBC about his “hell breaking loose” comment, Trump refused to elaborate, suggesting that Hamas would soon understand exactly what he meant. “You’ll find out, and they’ll find out too,” he said.
Trump was also questioned about whether the U.S. would intervene if Israel retaliated. His answer? “We’ll see what happens.” He clarified that this was simply his deadline and had not yet discussed it with Israeli officials.
Meanwhile, King Abdullah II of Jordan arrived in Washington and is scheduled to meet with Trump at the White House on Tuesday. Trump also commented on his proposal to resettle more Palestinians, claiming that Jordan and other nations would accept the idea. “I think he’ll accept it, and I think others will too. They’ve got good hearts,” Trump said.
However, countries like Jordan have pushed back against the idea. Trump was also asked if he would cut off aid to Jordan and Egypt if they reject the plan. “Yes, maybe. Why not?” he responded. “If they don’t do it, I could stop the aid – yes.”
