U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a "last warning" to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of all hostages held in Gaza after direct negotiations with the group.
U.S. President Donald Trump has issued what he calls a "last warning" to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of all hostages held in Gaza. This follows direct talks between U.S. officials and Hamas, marking a departure from Washington's longstanding policy of avoiding contact with the militant group.
Trump stated that Hamas must release all hostages and return the bodies of those killed. He made the announcement on his Truth Social platform, warning that failure to comply would result in severe consequences. He also promised a "beautiful future" for Gaza civilians, "but not if they hold hostages."
This warning comes just hours after the U.S. confirmed direct negotiations with Hamas—a significant departure from U.S. policy against negotiating with groups that the U.S. designates as terrorist organizations.
The talks occur amid a fragile Israel-Hamas ceasefire. The White House confirmed that U.S. officials held two direct meetings with Hamas representatives in Doha, Qatar, following several indirect communications.
As diplomatic efforts continue, Israel maintains that 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with at least 24 believed to be alive. U.S. citizens are also among those held captive. Hamas has yet to comment on Trump’s threats.
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