President-elect Donald Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff declared on January 7 that he anticipates positive developments regarding hostages held by Hamas in Gaza prior to Trump's inauguration on January 20.

Witkoff expressed, "Well, I think we're making a lot of progress, and I don't want to say too much because I think they're doing a really good job back in Doha," during a press conference in Palm Beach, Florida. Notably, USA Today reported that Doha, the capital of Qatar, has been pivotal in mediating negotiations aimed at establishing a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which escalated following the latter's attack on October 7, 2023.

Witkoff mentioned he planned to return to Doha to continue these important discussions. He stated, "I think that we've had some really great progress, and I'm really hopeful that by the inaugural, we'll have some good things to announce on behalf of the president."

Trump, who will succeed President Joe Biden, reiterated a significant warning about potential consequences if Hamas fails to release the hostages before he takes office, suggesting that "all hell will break out in the Middle East." He cautioned, "It will not be good for Hamas, and it will not be good, frankly, for anyone."

The conflict has resulted in the death of more than 1,200 individuals and the capture of over 250 hostages by Hamas, according to Israeli officials. While more than 100 hostages have been released through various negotiations or military operations, approximately 101 hostages remain in Gaza, with around half believed to still be alive.

As a result of the ongoing hostilities, Israel's military actions have claimed over 45,000 Palestinian lives, primarily affecting civilians, and have led to widespread displacement in the Gaza Strip. This situation continues to evolve as diplomatic efforts progress.

For more detailed coverage, visit Reuters.