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US President-elect Donald Trump expressed confidence on Monday that a deal to release hostages held in Hamas captivity could be finalized by the end of the week.
Speaking to Newsmax in a phone interview, Trump affirmed, “I understand there’s been a handshake, and they’re getting it finished, maybe by the end of the week.” He noted that negotiations were nearing completion but emphasized the urgency of achieving results.
“We’re very close to getting it done,” Trump stated, while stressing the stakes involved. “They have to get it done,” he warned, alluding to severe repercussions if progress falters. “If they don’t get it done, there’s going to be a lot of trouble out there, like they have never seen before.”
Hostage Deal Progress
A source informed The Jerusalem Post on Monday that a three-phase plan to secure the release of hostages had been developed, with all parties now awaiting Hamas’s formal response. The specifics of the phased plan remain undisclosed, but it is believed to involve mediated exchanges facilitated by international actors.
The ongoing negotiations are being closely watched, particularly in light of comments from US President Joe Biden, who also conveyed optimism earlier on Monday. Biden described the deal as being on the “brink” and “finally coming to fruition.”
Trump’s Firm Stance
Trump has maintained a firm tone regarding the hostages, making it clear that their release is a top priority as he prepares to assume office on January 20.
During an appearance at his Mar-a-Lago New Year’s Eve gala earlier this month, he reiterated his demand for Hamas to release the captives “soon.”
In December, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to issue a stark warning: “Please let this TRUTH serve to represent that if the hostages are not released prior to January 20, 2025, the date that I proudly assume Office as President of the United States, there will be ALL HELL TO PAY in the Middle East, and for those in charge who perpetrated these atrocities against Humanity.”
Bipartisan Push for Resolution
The hostage situation has drawn bipartisan concern, with both Trump and Biden signaling the importance of a swift resolution.
Biden’s administration has worked behind the scenes to mediate discussions and establish conditions for the hostages’ release, including leveraging international partnerships.
While Trump has been vocal in his criticism of Hamas and his call for decisive action, his approach reflects continuity with ongoing diplomatic efforts.
The convergence of statements from both leaders underscores the high-stakes nature of the situation as families of hostages await news.
Growing Public Focus
The issue has captured public attention globally, with images from Hostage Square in Tel Aviv serving as a somber reminder of the crisis. Visitors gathered there on September 25, 2024, as public calls for action intensified.
As the world watches, the countdown to January 20 adds pressure to finalize the deal. Whether the hostages’ release will indeed materialize by the week’s end remains to be seen, but the consequences of failure, as Trump has made clear, could be profound.