Trump issues ‘final warning’ to Hamas over Gaza hostages

U.S. President Donald Trump issued a strong warning to Hamas on Wednesday, demanding the immediate release of hostages held in Gaza. Trump stated that failure to comply would result in severe consequences for the group.

Trump’s ultimatum to Hamas

In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump wrote, “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.”

He also stated, “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 further warned Hamas leadership to leave Gaza while they still had the opportunity. “I have just met with your former Hostages whose lives you have destroyed. This is your last warning! For the leadership, now is the time to leave Gaza, while you still have a chance. Also, to the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD! Make a SMART decision.”

“RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW, OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER!” Trump concluded.

US holds direct talks with Hamas

Trump’s statements came just hours after the White House confirmed that U.S. officials had engaged in direct discussions with Hamas regarding hostage negotiations.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt acknowledged the talks, saying, “When it comes to the negotiations that you’re referring to, first of all, the special envoy who’s engaged in those negotiations does have the authority to talk to anyone.” She emphasized that Israel had been consulted regarding the discussions.

This marked a departure from longstanding U.S. policy, which traditionally avoids direct negotiations with groups the U.S. has designated as terrorist organizations, including Hamas.

Ongoing cease-fire and hostage crisis

The reported discussions coincide with ongoing efforts to extend a six-week cease-fire that expired on Sunday.

Israel has repeatedly stated that it will resume military operations if Hamas does not release the remaining hostages, some of whom are U.S. citizens.

According to Israeli authorities, 59 hostages are still being held in Gaza, including 24 believed to be alive. Hamas has not yet officially responded to Trump’s latest statements.

US Hostage Affairs envoy engages with Hamas

Sources familiar with the situation revealed that Adam Boehler, the nominee for U.S. special presidential envoy for Hostage Affairs, recently met with Hamas representatives in Doha. These meetings, first reported by Axios, represent an unusual diplomatic move given Washington’s historical stance on Hamas.

Despite the diplomatic shift, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office released a brief statement, saying, “Israel has expressed to the United States its position regarding direct talks with Hamas.”

The statement did not elaborate further.

Escalating tensions and International Response

Trump’s warnings follow his earlier threats in December, when he cautioned that failure to release the hostages before he took office would result in “hell to pay.”

The group in Gaza condemned Trump’s latest comments, accusing the U.S. of “participating in genocide.” Israel has denied such accusations.

Meanwhile, Hamas has yet to comment on Trump’s recent ultimatum.