Trump Demands Hostage Release Before Inauguration: "All Hell to Pay" If Not Freed

President-elect Donald Trump has issued a stark warning following the confirmation by the IDF that Hamas killed American-Israeli Omer Neutra on October 7 and has since held his body hostage. In a post on Truth Social, Trump called the situation in the Middle East a human rights crisis, criticizing the international community’s response as "all talk and no action." He emphasized that if hostages are not released by January 20, 2025, the date of his inauguration, those responsible would face dire consequences.

Trump's post read: "If the hostages are not released prior to January 20, 2025, there will be ALL HELL TO PAY in the Middle East, and for those in charge who perpetrated these atrocities against Humanity." He also added, “RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW!”

Trump’s comments come amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis, with hostages still being held by Hamas following the October 7 attack. The American-Israeli hostages have become a central point in diplomatic talks, with many urging for immediate action to secure their release. Trump’s remarks underline the sense of urgency felt by the hostage families, including those of Neutra and others, who are demanding action from both the current and incoming U.S. administrations.

Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee,, who was nominated as the next U.S. Ambassador to Israel in November, stated, "There must be serious consequences for holding any hostage."

Coordination on Hostage Negotiations

In response to Trump’s calls for action, the Biden administration confirmed that they have briefed the incoming Trump team on the latest developments regarding hostage negotiations. Biden himself discussed the ongoing talks with Trump during a meeting at the White House on November 13.

In a further indication of Trump’s focus on resolving the hostage crisis, his team has been in contact with the families of the hostages, with Trump’s office reiterating their commitment to securing a deal. Adi Alexander, father of hostage Edan, mentioned that Trump's team has been working "24/7" to ensure the hostages' release and a potential ceasefire before Trump's inauguration.

Hostage Families Speak Out

The Hostage Families Forum, representing the relatives of those kidnapped, has voiced support for Trump’s decisive stance. "The Hostage Families Forum extends its gratitude to President-elect Trump for his clear and uncompromising message," the organization stated. "The time has come. We must bring them home NOW."

Trump’s message has been praised for its clarity and determination, especially given the urgency of the situation. Family members, including Orna and Ronen Neutra, expressed hope that Trump’s diplomatic experience and strong relationships in the region would help bring about a solution.

Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer is expected to visit Washington and Miami this week to discuss the hostage issue, among other topics. Dermer has been working on a post-war plan for Gaza in collaboration with the United States and the UAE, hoping to secure a resolution that would exclude Hamas and help facilitate a hostage deal.