WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of hostages held in Gaza. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump warned of severe consequences if his demands were not met.
“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 wrote, calling the message a “last warning” to the group. He further threatened the leadership of Hamas, urging them to leave Gaza “while you still have a chance.”
The statement comes as the White House confirmed it has initiated direct talks with Hamas to secure the release of the hostages.
According to reports, these discussions have been facilitated by Qatar, a key U.S. ally that has hosted Hamas representatives in its capital, Doha, since 2012.
The Gulf state has previously played significant roles in mediating regional conflicts, including negotiations involving Iran, the Taliban, and Russia.
Risk of Complications
Mick Mulroy, a former U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East, expressed concerns that the U.S. approach could complicate Israel’s efforts to free its own citizens if not carefully coordinated.
Mulroy, also an ex-CIA paramilitary officer, emphasized the need for proactive measures by the U.S. to recover its citizens held by Hamas.
Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office acknowledged the U.S. decision to engage directly with Hamas but did not disclose further details.
Reports suggest that Adam Boehler, the U.S. special envoy for hostages, held two direct meetings with Hamas representatives in Doha, following several preliminary communications.
Escalating Tensions
In his post, Trump did not specify the nature of the additional support being sent to Israel but hinted at a massive escalation if his demands were ignored.
“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 declared.
His warning extended to civilians in Gaza as well, stating, “A beautiful future awaits, but not if you hold hostages. If you do, you are DEAD!”
The president’s message follows a December warning where he stated there would be “all hell to pay” if hostages were not released by the time he took office. Trump’s latest comments came shortly after he met with hostages recently released under a ceasefire.
Ongoing Negotiations
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the direct talks with Hamas, describing Boehler’s efforts as a “good faith” mission aimed at securing the release of American citizens. She noted that Israel was consulted prior to the initiation of talks.
A Palestinian source told the BBC that two direct meetings between U.S. officials and Hamas had already taken place in Qatar. Meanwhile, Israel reported that 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with up to 24 believed to be alive, including American citizens.
The negotiations, first reported by Axios, are said to focus on the release of U.S. hostages and a broader potential agreement to halt the ongoing conflict.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the situation remains tense, with Washington’s decision to engage directly with Hamas marking a significant shift in U.S. policy towards the group, which is designated a terrorist organization by the United States.