Hostages, ceasefire, and Trump’s dangerous fantasy

As the world reels from the harrowing revelations about the physical state of the last three Israeli hostages released by Hamas, the stakes in the ongoing war could not be clearer. The images of their emaciated bodies, the descriptions of their physical and psychological torment—these are not mere details in a political saga; they are an indictment of the unbearable cost of inaction. And yet, instead of focusing on what truly matters—securing the release of the remaining hostages and negotiating a viable ceasefire—the conversation is being hijacked by reckless ideas that threaten to unravel any chance for resolution.

Enter Donald Trump. In a recent outburst of geopolitical ignorance, the former U.S. president suggested that Israel should expel Palestinians from Gaza and build a luxurious “Middle East Riviera” in their place. The sheer absurdity of this proposal would be laughable if it weren’t so dangerous. In one breath, Trump not only inflamed tensions but also handed Hamas and other extremist factions a propaganda gift wrapped in gold. His statement undermines every effort to reach a negotiated agreement, pushing the possibility of a hostage deal and a ceasefire further out of reach.

The Clock is Ticking

The release of the last three hostages was meant to be a breakthrough, a step forward in an already fragile process. Instead, it has exposed the brutal reality of their captivity. These hostages were barely clinging to life, suffering from extreme malnutrition and untreated illnesses. Their condition is a chilling reminder of what the remaining captives may be enduring at this very moment. If negotiations stall, if diplomatic efforts crumble, the lives of those still in Hamas’s hands may be lost forever.

That is why the recent pause in future hostage releases is not just another setback—it is a crisis. Hamas thrives on instability and chaos, and the longer this war drags on without a clear strategy for resolution, the more leverage the terror group gains. Every day without an agreement means more suffering, more destruction, and a growing risk that the hostages will not return alive.

Trump’s Delusion is a Gift to Extremists

In this delicate moment, when every word from world leaders carries weight, Trump has chosen to pour gasoline on the fire. His call for the mass displacement of Palestinians is not only morally repugnant but also strategically catastrophic. It reinforces the most extreme narratives about Israel’s intentions, fueling further radicalization and making a hostage deal even more unlikely.

If Israel were to even entertain such an idea, it would shatter the fragile diplomatic efforts currently underway. Countries that have been key mediators, such as Egypt and Qatar, would have no choice but to distance themselves from the negotiations. The already strained relations with key international partners would deteriorate further. And, perhaps most importantly, it would embolden Hamas to refuse any further deals, claiming that their resistance is the only thing standing between Palestinians and forced exile.

A Time for Leadership, Not Lunacy

Israel does not need distractions; it needs a strategy. It needs real leadership that prioritizes the safe return of the hostages, a ceasefire that prevents further bloodshed, and a path forward that does not play into the hands of extremists.

Trump’s rhetoric is a dangerous fantasy—one that serves no one but himself. The idea of transforming Gaza into a luxury resort while expelling its population is not just impractical; it is an affront to history, justice, and common sense. It delegitimizes Israel’s efforts to defend itself, weakens its position on the world stage, and derails the negotiations that could bring an end to the suffering of so many.

Right now, every Israeli should be focused on one priority: bringing our people home. Anything that distracts from that mission, that undermines international support, or that emboldens Hamas to prolong this nightmare must be rejected outright. This is a moment for pragmatism, for tough but necessary diplomacy, and for an unrelenting focus on what truly matters.

The hostages cannot afford delays. Israel cannot afford distractions. And the world cannot afford to take Trump’s bait.