President-elect Trump issues stern warning on Gaza hostages, hints at economic and military actions on key geopolitical territories.
Florida [US], January 8: US President-elect Donald Trump issued a stern warning on Tuesday, declaring that “all hell will break out in the Middle East” if hostages held by Hamas in Gaza are not released before his January 20 inauguration.
Addressing a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump emphasized that failure to secure the release of hostages would have severe consequences. “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,” Trump said, adding that the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel “should have never happened.”
Progress in Ceasefire Negotiations
Steve Witkoff, Trump’s designated Special Envoy to the Middle East, expressed optimism about ongoing negotiations to secure a ceasefire and hostage release deal. He credited Trump’s influence for driving progress in the discussions. “It’s the president, his reputation, and the things he has said that are driving this negotiation. Hopefully, it’ll all work out, and we’ll save some lives,” Witkoff stated.
In contrast, a senior Biden administration official offered a more cautious outlook, stating that negotiations remain “difficult and complex,” despite coordination between the outgoing and incoming administrations.
Bold Geopolitical Claims on Greenland, Panama Canal, and Canada
During the same press conference, Trump stirred controversy by refusing to rule out military force to secure control of the Panama Canal and Greenland, while suggesting “economic force” for Canada.
“We need them for economic security,” Trump asserted, warning Denmark of high tariffs if they refuse to cede control of Greenland. He suggested that Greenland’s population could “vote for independence or integration with the US.”
On Canada, Trump stated, “No military force, only economic force. You get rid of that artificially drawn line, and it would also be much better for national security.”
Trump has repeatedly suggested in recent weeks that Canada should become the 51st state of the US, even referencing Canadian PM Justin Trudeau’s resignation announcement to support his stance.
Renaming Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America
Trump also announced plans to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America, calling it “a beautiful name that reflects strength and unity.”
Criticism of Biden Administration’s Transition Handling
Trump accused the Biden administration of obstructing a smooth transition, claiming they are attempting to “block reforms voted for by the American people.”
“They talk about a smooth transition, but all they do is place roadblocks. Well, we’re going to be drilling again,” he added.
Countdown to Inauguration
Trump’s remarks come just days after US Congress officially certified his electoral victory with 312 electoral votes to Kamala Harris’ 226. The certification process went smoothly, marking the final step before Trump’s return to the White House on January 20.
As the date approaches, Trump’s assertive statements signal a period of aggressive foreign policy shifts and bold domestic reforms, setting the stage for a highly consequential presidency.
