As part of the ongoing negotiations for a hostage deal, President-elect Trump’s Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, announced this evening (Tuesday) that he will join the discussions in Doha. Witkoff reported significant progress in the talks, and stated, “I hope we will have good news about a deal before the January 20th inauguration.” Meanwhile, Trump continues to pressure Hamas, warning that if the hostages are not returned by his swearing-in, “Hamas will face hell.”
Trump’s Envoy: “It’s Better to Conclude This Before the Inauguration”
During a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Witkoff was asked whether Hamas is waiting for Trump to officially take office. He responded, “No, I think they’ve gotten the message loud and clear. It’s better to conclude this before the inauguration.” He added, “The president is frustrated. I don’t want to speak for him, but I don’t know anyone who delegates better than President Trump. He gives us the authority to speak on his behalf and urges us to speak decisively. Being decisive means you have to get this done.”
President-elect Trump reiterated his stern warning to Hamas, cautioning of severe consequences if the hostages are not released promptly. “All hell will break loose if these hostages don’t return,” he said.
Chief of Staff: “We Will Not Stop”
As reported earlier tonight, IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi delivered a firm message to IDF troops about the hostages during his visit to Jabalia: “We will not stop. We will bring them to the point where they understand they must return all the hostages. Otherwise, the highly skilled professional actions you are taking will continue and continue.”
He also emphasized the IDF’s efforts to minimize casualties among Israeli soldiers, saying, “I know you are doing everything to ensure we suffer as few casualties as possible.”
Halevi Speaks with IDF About Saving the Hostages: “We will not stop”.
