The militant group Hamas has responded to U.S. President Donald Trump’s ultimatum by stating that the Israeli hostages must be returned immediately or face more destruction in Gaza, potentially upsetting an already unstable ceasefire agreement. This warning was issued after Trump urged Hamas leadership to leave Gaza and release all hostages and the bodies of those killed, or face severe consequences. According to a Hamas spokesperson, these threats complicate the ceasefire talks and encourage Israel not to implement the agreement’s terms.
Trump’s statement, which labeled Gazans as “dead” if the hostages are not released, complicates the ongoing negotiations. Initially, a ceasefire that started on January 19th led to the exchange of 33 Israeli hostages for about 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees. The second phase of the agreement calls for further hostage releases and final talks to end the conflict.
However, various obstacles remain. Hamas demands the withdrawal of all Israeli forces from Gaza and is unclear about the future governance of the region, including the potential role of Hamas in post-war Gaza. Trump has faced criticism for suggesting that Gaza could become a “riviera” or be evacuated. Despite the expired first phase of the ceasefire, Israel has continued to block aid to Gaza, citing concerns over looting by Hamas.
During this time, the U.S. is increasing military support for Israel, with expedited deliveries of billions of dollars worth of weapons. Additionally, the U.S. has initiated direct talks with Hamas, contradicting the previous approach of negotiating through Israel and mediators from Qatar and Egypt. All three bodies—U.S., Israel, and the European Union—designate Hamas as a terrorist organization.
The conflict saw over 1,200 people killed in Hamas’ terror attacks on southern Israel on October 7th, which prompted a military response from Israel. Since then, over 48,000 people have been killed in Gaza, and of the 251 hostages taken, it is estimated that fewer than half are still alive.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/hamas-says-trump-threats-endanger-ceasefire-with-israel/a-71844186?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf
