Egyptian media reacts strongly to Trump’s warning over Israeli hostages

Egyptian media and analysts have strongly criticized comments by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who issued a stern warning regarding the release of Israeli hostages, according to The New Arab.

In a statement on his Truth Social platform, Trump declared, “If the hostages are not released before January 20, 2025, the date that I proudly assume Office as President of the United States, there will be ALL HELL TO PAY in the Middle East.”

The remark sparked immediate backlash, with prominent TV host Ahmed Mussa reportedly responding on air, “He is threatening the whole Middle East… We are talking here about the biggest power in the world, not just Israel.”

Dr. Mostafa ElFeki, a former senior diplomat and political analyst, also criticized Trump’s comments, stating, “What worse could the Palestinian people face than what they have already been undergoing?”

Social media activists joined the outcry, accusing Trump of ignoring the ongoing struggles of Palestinians in his rhetoric.

Egypt’s government has not officially commented. Analysts note that President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi is likely to benefit from Trump’s presidency, given their reportedly strong relationship.

Under Trump’s previous administration, Sisi faced less criticism over Egypt’s human rights record compared to the Biden presidency. U.S. media has also reported allegations that Sisi may have funneled $10 million to Trump’s 2016 campaign—a violation of U.S. laws that prohibit foreign contributions to federal candidates.