US President Donald Trump issued a “last warning” to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of all hostages in Gaza. The statement came just hours after the White House confirmed that the US was negotiating directly with the militant group.
“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 posted on Truth Social on Wednesday night, March 5, following a meeting with eight freed hostages at the White House.
Trump further stated that he would send Israel “everything it needs to finish the job” and warned that “Not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say.”
This statement came shortly after the US confirmed reports of direct negotiations with Hamas concerning hostages and a Gaza ceasefire, breaking its long-standing policy of not engaging with groups it designates as terrorist organizations.
As international aid groups urged Israel to allow unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza, the US confirmed its involvement in talks with Hamas despite the group’s designation as a Foreign Terrorist Organization since 1997.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed questions about the US’s direct talks with Hamas, stating that the special envoy tasked with the negotiations, Adam Boehler, had the authority to engage with anyone, and that Israel was consulted on the matter.
In his Truth Social post, Trump also appealed to the people of Gaza, saying, “a beautiful future awaits, but not if you hold hostages.” He added, “If you do, you are DEAD! Make a SMART decision. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW, OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER!”
