Trump Blasts Israel-Hamas Ceasefire, Calls Hostage Conditions Shocking

President Donald Trump voiced frustration over the Israel-Hamas ceasefire after witnessing the frail condition of three Israeli hostages released by Hamas. Speaking aboard Air Force One en route to the Super Bowl in New Orleans, Trump compared their appearance to Holocaust survivors, saying they were “emaciated” and in “horrible condition.” He expressed concerns over the slow release process, stating, “At some point, we’re going to lose our patience.”

The three hostages—Ohad Ben Ami, Eli Sharabi, and Or Levy—were freed on Saturday in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners. The men, abducted during Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack, appeared in worse condition than the 18 previously released under the January 15 truce. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called their appearance “shocking.” Many Palestinian prisoners freed by Israel have also appeared malnourished.

Trump reaffirmed his controversial plan for the U.S. to take ownership of Gaza after Palestinians leave, a proposal he introduced on February 4 during Netanyahu’s Washington visit. He suggested that other Middle Eastern nations might help rebuild Gaza under U.S. oversight, emphasizing efforts to prevent Hamas from regaining control.

The ceasefire deal remains uncertain as tensions rise over the remaining 76 hostages.