New Delhi: US President-elect Donald Trump expressed confidence that a ceasefire agreement with Hamas is close to being finalised. In an interview to Newsmax, Trump said “we are very close to getting it done”. Talking about the hostage deal, he warned that if Hamas fails to seal the deal, they would face “a lot of trouble like they have never seen before”.
“We are very close to getting it done, and they have to get it done. If they don’t get it done, there’s going to be a lot of trouble out there, a lot of trouble like they have never seen before, and they will get it done. And I understand it’s. It’s been. There’s been a handshake and they’re getting it finished and maybe by the end of the week, but it has to take place,” Trump said.
ISRAEL, HAMAS NEAR HOSTAGE DEAL?: “We are very close to getting it done,” President-elect Donald Trump tells “Rob Schmitt Tonight.”
“There’s been a handshake.” pic.twitter.com/lRO9Ul1zHh
— NEWSMAX (@NEWSMAX) January 14, 2025
Trump wants deal in place before January 20
Trump called the hostage crisis a “horrible thing” while pointing out that Iran, a major player in the middle-east, had been financially strained, making it more difficult for Hamas to secure resources. Hamas has reportedly showed willingness to reach a deal, while Israel has expressed hopes for the safe return of hostages. The proposed deal would see the release of 33 hostages initially. According to reports, Hamas and its allies continue to hold 94 hostages. Among them 34 are believed to be dead.
Trump has made it clear that he expects the release of hostages and a ceasefire to occur before he takes office, warning of consequences for Hamas if the situation remains unresolved.
Outgoing President Joe Biden has also expressed optimism about the deal, stating, that both parties were “on the brink” of reaching an agreement. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan highlighted the critical role of US and Qatar-based negotiators are playing in securing the deal.
