US President Threatens Hamas With Severe Consequences if Hostages Are Not Freed
Donald Trump has delivered a decisive ultimatum to Hamas, warning that dire consequences await if the remaining hostages are not released from Gaza. In a detailed message on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated that the US is providing Israel with all the necessary support to eliminate Hamas, and no Hamas member will remain safe if the hostages are not freed.
Hamas quickly responded, accusing the US president of inciting Israel to break the ceasefire agreement currently in place between the two sides. Trump, however, issued a stern warning, demanding that all hostages be released immediately and that the bodies of the deceased be returned without delay. He also urged Hamas leadership to leave Gaza while they still had a chance to escape.
The White House confirmed that the US had been holding direct discussions with Hamas about the hostages’ release, a significant shift in policy. Traditionally, the US has avoided direct engagement with groups it designates as terrorist organisations, but the ongoing crisis has prompted a change in strategy. These talks were reportedly held in Qatar, where US officials have met with Hamas representatives to negotiate the release of US citizens and to explore broader ceasefire terms.
The hostage situation arose from the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, which resulted in nearly 1,200 deaths and the capture of 251 hostages. Since the beginning of Israel’s retaliatory campaign, over 48,000 Palestinians have died. Currently, 59 hostages remain in Gaza, including five Americans, one of whom is believed to be alive.
Despite the ceasefire efforts, the situation remains tense, with Trump reiterating his commitment to ensuring the hostages’ safe return. He also hinted at future actions, stating that if the hostages are not released, the situation would become “OVER” for Hamas.
This news follows recent reports of direct US-Hamas talks, which were first made public by Axios. These discussions aim not only to secure the hostages’ release but also to negotiate a broader resolution to the ongoing conflict.
