US President-elect Donald Trump warned that “all hell will break out in the Middle East” if hostages held by Hamas in Gaza are not released before his inauguration on January 20. Speaking at a press conference in Florida, Trump said, “It will not be good for Hamas and it will not be good, frankly, for anyone. All hell will break out. I don’t have to say anymore, but that’s what it is,” adding that “there should have never been” the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel.
Trump’s remarks were echoed by Steve Witkoff, the designated special envoy to the Middle East, who expressed optimism about ongoing ceasefire negotiations. Witkoff stated, “It’s the president, his reputation, the things that he has said that are driving this negotiation, and so hopefully it’ll all work out and we’ll save some lives.”
While the Biden administration has been leading the talks, a senior official stated the negotiations remain difficult, offering a more cautious view compared to Witkoff’s optimism.
During the same press conference, Trump also discussed his controversial stance on acquiring strategic territories, including the Panama Canal, Greenland, and Canada. Trump refused to rule out “military or economic coercion” to gain control of these areas, emphasizing their importance for US economic security. He added, “No, I can’t assure you on either of those two, but I can say this, we need them for economic security.”
Regarding Greenland, Trump suggested that Denmark should give up control or face high tariffs, proposing that the people of Greenland could choose independence or join the United States. On Canada, Trump clarified, “No, economic force,” reiterating his belief that Canada should become the 51st state.
Trump also criticized the former US President Jimmy Carter’s decision to hand control of the Panama Canal back to Panama, calling it a “disgrace.” He announced plans to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America,” calling it a more appropriate title.
Trump, who won the 2024 election with 312 electoral votes, slammed the Biden administration’s transition efforts, accusing them of obstructing the reforms voted for by the American people. His comments came after Congress certified his election victory, marking the final step before his inauguration on January 20.