Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, has warned Hamas that if all hostages held in Gaza are not released by midday Saturday, he will propose ending the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, allowing further conflict to erupt. Speaking in the Oval Office on Monday, Trump expressed frustration over the conditions of the hostages recently freed by Hamas and the group's decision to halt further releases.

Trump emphasized the urgency of releasing the hostages, stating that he expected them to be freed in groups rather than in small groups. "If all of the hostages aren’t returned by Saturday at 12 o’clock, I think it's an appropriate time. I would say, cancel it and let hell break out," he said. He also suggested that Israel might override his stance on the matter and hinted that he could consult Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the situation.

Trump also touched upon a potential shift in US foreign policy regarding Palestinian refugees. He stated that he might consider withholding aid to Egypt and Jordan if they do not accept Palestinians displaced from Gaza. His comments come ahead of a meeting with Jordan's King Abdullah on Tuesday.

The former president’s remarks also revealed some confusion over his proposal to take control of Gaza once the fighting stops. Trump had suggested the possibility of relocating Gaza's 2.2 million residents and transforming the region into a developed area, but contradicted his own officials by stating that Palestinians would not be allowed to return to Gaza permanently. Instead, he suggested they would be relocated temporarily, with the US potentially overseeing the reconstruction of the area.

The idea of displacing Palestinians has been met with criticism from Arab nations and rights groups. Many view the proposal as an attempt at ethnic cleansing. While Netanyahu had supported the idea, he implied that Palestinians could eventually return to Gaza after the region is rebuilt.

Trump’s controversial comments came amid rising tensions, as a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is under threat following Hamas’ decision to halt the release of hostages. The Middle East remains on edge, with neighbouring Arab states, including Egypt and Jordan, opposing the forced displacement of Palestinians.