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📍 Washington, D.C. — Former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a forceful statement on social media this week, calling on Hamas to release all remaining hostages amid the ongoing Israel–Gaza conflict. “Tell Hamas to IMMEDIATELY give back all 20 Hostages (Not 2 or 5 or 7!), and things will change rapidly. IT WILL END!” Trump wrote, referencing stalled negotiations and escalating regional tensions.
The remarks come as the Trump administration faces international criticism over its decision to deny visas to Palestinian Authority (PA) and Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) officials ahead of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York. The U.S. State Department cited national security concerns and accused the PA of undermining peace efforts, including contributing to Hamas’s refusal to release hostages.
The visa ban affects approximately 80 Palestinian officials, including PA President Mahmoud Abbas, though waivers will be granted to the PA’s UN mission in accordance with the UN Headquarters Agreement. Palestinian leaders have condemned the move as a violation of international law, while European governments and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation have urged the U.S. to reverse the decision.
Trump’s statement aligns with broader U.S. policy shifts aimed at pressuring Palestinian leadership to distance itself from militant factions and recommit to diplomatic engagement. The hostage issue remains a central obstacle in ceasefire negotiations, with international mediators warning that unilateral actions may further complicate efforts to de-escalate the conflict.
