Trump Issues "Last Warning" to Hamas Over Hostages in Gaza

TDT | Manama

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U.S. President Donald Trump has issued what he called a "last warning" to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of hostages held in Gaza. In a forceful statement on his Truth Social platform, Trump vowed to provide Israel with "everything it needs to finish the job," warning that no Hamas member would be safe if the hostages were not freed.

"I am sending Israel everything it needs to finish the job, not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don't do as I say," Trump declared in his post.

The warning comes just hours after the White House confirmed that the U.S. has been engaged in direct negotiations with Hamas regarding the hostages. Until now, Washington has avoided direct engagement with the group, adhering to a long-standing U.S. policy against negotiating with entities it designates as terrorist organizations.

Trump's message also carried ominous threats, stating there would be "hell to pay" if the captives were not released. While he did not specify the exact nature of U.S. support for Israel, he demanded Hamas release "all of the hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you."

The president also issued a warning to Hamas leaders, advising them to "leave Gaza while you still have a chance." In a message seemingly directed at civilians, he added, "A beautiful future awaits, but not if you hold hostages. If you do, you are DEAD!"

This is not the first time Trump has made such threats. In December, he warned that there would be "all hell to pay" if hostages were not freed by the time he took office.

White House Confirms Direct Talks with Hamas

Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the U.S. has been directly negotiating with Hamas to secure the release of hostages. She stated that Israel had been consulted before these talks took place.

President Trump, Leavitt told reporters, was committed to "doing what is in the best interest of the American people." She also praised the efforts of Adam Boehler, the U.S. special envoy for hostages, describing his role as a "good faith effort to do what's right for the American people."

According to a Palestinian source cited by the BBC, "two direct meetings" between U.S. officials and Hamas representatives have occurred, following earlier communications between both sides.

Israel estimates that 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with up to 24 believed to be alive. Among them are U.S. citizens.

The situation remains tense as diplomatic efforts and military actions continue to unfold.