In a recent episode of the “Eye for Iran” podcast, Michael P. Pregent, a former U.S. intelligence officer and military adviser, expressed skepticism regarding President Donald Trump’s ultimatum to Hamas. Pregent contends that without addressing Iran’s support for the militant group, such ultimatums are unlikely to yield the desired outcomes.
President Trump has demanded that Hamas release all hostages by noon on Saturday, February 15, 2025, threatening severe consequences if his demands are not met. This stance has been supported by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has indicated a willingness to resume military operations in Gaza should the hostages not be freed as stipulated. Netanyahu’s firm position underscores the high stakes involved and the potential for escalated conflict if the situation remains unresolved.
Pregent argues that focusing solely on Hamas without confronting Iran’s involvement is a flawed strategy. He emphasizes that Iran is a primary enabler of Hamas, providing financial and military support that empowers the group’s activities. Without imposing tangible consequences on Tehran, efforts to curb Hamas’s operations may prove ineffective. Pregent suggests that the U.S. should exert economic pressure on Iran, discourage Iraqi cooperation with Tehran, and directly confront Iran’s affiliated groups in the region, such as Hezbollah and the Houthis.
These measures, he believes, would signal a serious commitment to holding Iran accountable for its support of militant organizations.
The situation is further complicated by Hamas’s response to President Trump’s threats. The group has dismissed the ultimatum, stating that such threats will not expedite the release of hostages. Hamas also criticized Trump’s proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza, labeling it as “racist” and a call for “ethnic cleansing.” This defiant stance suggests that without addressing the broader geopolitical dynamics, including Iran’s influence, the current approach may not achieve the intended results.
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