JERUSALEM – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday commended U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for his strong statement demanding the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu expressed his appreciation during the start of a cabinet meeting, emphasizing Trump’s unwavering focus on the militant group.
“Hamas is required to release the hostages. President Trump put the emphasis in the right place, on Hamas, and not on the Israeli government, as is customary (elsewhere),” Netanyahu said, referencing the international tendency to pressure Israel in such matters.
Trump’s remarks, which included a vow of “all hell to pay” if hostages are not freed before his January 20 inauguration, have drawn significant attention from both Israeli officials and international observers. Netanyahu’s endorsement of Trump’s stance comes as Israel continues its military operations against Hamas in Gaza, following the October 7 attacks that killed more than 1,200 Israelis.
The situation has also heightened fears among Palestinian residents in Gaza, who worry that Trump’s hardline rhetoric may lead to an intensification of Israeli military actions. Humanitarian organizations have voiced concerns over the impact of continued hostilities on civilians, who are already grappling with shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
Trump’s position has been welcomed by other Israeli leaders, who see it as a sign of strong U.S. support for Israel’s security. However, critics argue that his aggressive rhetoric risks further destabilizing an already volatile region.
With Trump’s inauguration just weeks away, many are watching closely to see how his administration will address the ongoing crisis and its implications for U.S.-Israel relations and broader Middle East peace efforts.
