Statements from the U.S. government or Department of Defense

Trump's National Security Advisor Vows Gaza Hostage Deal Implementation, U.S. Support for Israel if Hamas Reneges

Jan 19, 2025, 01:41 PM

Mike Waltz, President-elect Donald Trump's incoming National Security Advisor, has emphasized that the Trump administration is committed to ensuring the full implementation of all phases of the Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal. Waltz conveyed this commitment during a meeting with American and Israeli hostage families in Washington. He expressed relief that three brave women are no longer suffering at the hands of Hamas terrorists in the tunnels below Gaza and are reunited with their families. Additionally, Waltz stated that if Hamas reneges on the agreement, the United States will support Israel in taking necessary actions. He also asserted that Hamas will never govern Gaza again, a position he reiterated in interviews with CBS News and CNN. This stance comes as the ceasefire agreement, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S., went into effect on Sunday.