Trump warns Hamas: “You are finished” if Israeli hostages are not released promptly | World News
US President Donald Trump has demanded that Hamas return Israeli hostages or face dire consequences, stating “you are dead”.
This ultimatum was issued via social media shortly after the White House revealed that US officials engaged in direct conversations with Hamas, breaking a long-standing tradition.
Historically, the US has refrained from direct contact with Hamas due to its designation as a terrorist organization since 1997, in line with Washington’s policy of not negotiating with terrorists.
During a press briefing on Wednesday, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that there had been “ongoing talks and discussions” between US authorities and Hamas.
File pic: AP
However, she refrained from discussing the specifics of the negotiations held in Doha, Qatar, while mentioning that Israel had been informed.
Ms. Leavitt emphasized, “Engaging in dialogue with global entities for the welfare of the American people is a commitment the president stands by as a good faith effort.”
She noted, “There are American lives at stake.”
Adam Boehler, appointed by Mr. Trump as special envoy for hostage affairs, was involved in the talks with Hamas.
A representative for Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that Israel communicated its stance regarding direct negotiations with Hamas.
Shortly after, Mr. Trump reiterated to Hamas the necessity of returning the Israeli hostages or they would face severe repercussions, adding: “This is your last warning.”
Hamas militants on the day of a hostage handover in Gaza in February. Pic: Reuters
On his Truth Social platform, Mr. Trump stated: “Immediately return all hostages and the bodies of the deceased individuals you have murdered, or it will be over for you.”
“Only deranged individuals retain bodies; you are deranged. I am providing Israel with everything necessary to complete their mission; no Hamas member will find safety if you do not comply.”
Mr. Trump met with the released Israeli captives on Wednesday and referred to this meeting in his social media message, adding: “This is your last warning. To Hamas leadership, now is the time to exit Gaza while you can.”
“And to the people of Gaza, a bright future lies ahead, provided you do not hold hostages. If you do, you are doomed. Make the right choice: release the hostages now, or you will face severe consequences later.”
Israel estimates that approximately 24 live hostages remain, including American citizen Edan Alexander, alongside the remains of at least 35 others believed to be in Gaza.
Donald Trump with Benjamin Netanyahu in February. Pic: Reuters
The US has traditionally upheld a policy of not negotiating with terrorists; however, this approach is being altered with recent talks with Hamas, recognized as a foreign terrorist organization by the National Counterterrorism Center since 1997.
These discussions occur amidst a tenuous ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, though its future remains in question.
Palestinians amid the rubble in the southern Gaza strip. Pic: Reuters
Mr. Trump has indicated he will not deter Israeli Prime Minister from resuming combat if Hamas fails to comply with the terms of a new ceasefire proposal, which, according to Israel, has been formulated by US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.
This new proposal would necessitate Hamas releasing half of its remaining hostages, its primary leverage, in exchange for an extension of the ceasefire and a commitment to negotiate a lasting peace.
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Israel has not mentioned any plans to release more Palestinian prisoners, a critical element in the initial stages.
The fighting in Gaza has been on hold since January 19.
Hamas has previously exchanged 33 Israeli hostages and five Thai hostages for roughly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.
