Tue Dec 03 01:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Trump Threatens Hamas with ‘Unthinkable Consequences’ if Hostages Not Released

**JERUSALEM** – President-elect Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of all hostages held by the militant group before he assumes office in January 2025. Trump’s threat, posted on Truth Social, follows the recent release of a video by Hamas showing a captive American-Israeli hostage, 20-year-old Eden Alexander, pleading for his release after 420 days in captivity.

Trump’s statement emphasized that failure to comply would result in “unthinkable consequences” and “a hell they have never seen before.” The President-elect’s strong words underscore the escalating tensions in the region following Hamas’s October 7th attack on Israel, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths and the capture of over 251 people. While some hostages were released during a temporary ceasefire, Israeli media reports indicate that approximately 51 remain alive.

Alexander’s mother has publicly appealed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to uphold his promise to secure her son’s release, adding to the international pressure on Hamas. The situation is further complicated by a recent violation of the 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, leading to Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon and retaliatory attacks from Hezbollah. Both Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz have condemned the ceasefire violation and vowed strong action against further provocations.

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