President Donald Trump has issued a direct ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of Israeli hostages and the return of bodies held by the militant group.
Trump delivers new threats to Hamas
In a post shared on his social media platform, Trump warned Hamas that failure to comply would result in severe consequences.
“Shalom Hamas” means Hello and Goodbye – You can choose,” 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.”
Trump made it clear that the United States is fully backing Israel, pledging to send everything Israel needs to “finish the job” if Hamas does not comply.
He also directed a message to the people of Gaza, stating:
“A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD! Make a SMART decision.”
The post came after Trump met with hostages who were recently released during a temporary ceasefire agreement. The president made it clear, in no uncertain terms, that no Hamas member would be safe if the group refused to release the remaining captives.
“Only sick and twisted people keep bodies, and you are sick and twisted!” Trump stated, reinforcing his demand that Hamas immediately comply with his terms.
US holds direct talks with Hamas over hostages
Trump’s threats come at a critical moment, as the White House confirmed for the first time that US officials have been engaging in direct negotiations with Hamas to secure the release of hostages.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Israel had been consulted before the talks began and that the discussions were focused on ensuring the safe return of captives.
A Palestinian source revealed to BBC News that two direct meetings had already taken place in Qatar between Hamas and a US official, following several prior communications.
Israel estimates that 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with up to 24 believed to be alive. Among them are American citizens, making the matter a high priority for the US administration.
This is not the first time Trump has issued public threats against Hamas. In December 2024, he stated that there would be “all hell to pay” if the hostages were not freed before he took office.
With tensions escalating, the international community is closely monitoring whether Trump’s latest warning will influence Hamas’s next move.