Accept Hostage Deal or Face Consequences: Trump's 'Last Warning' To Hamas

US President Donald Trump has proposed a ceasefire and hostage release plan in Gaza, urging Hamas to accept his terms. The ongoing conflict has seen significant casualties, highlighting the urgent need for negotiations amid international pressure.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday demanded Hamas to accept a deal on hostage release with Israel, saying this is his "last warning" failing which the militant organisation has to face the consequences.

In a post on Truth Social, he wrote, "Everyone wants the Hostages HOME. Everyone wants this War to end! The Israelis have accepted my Terms. It is time for Hamas to accept as well. I have warned Hamas about the consequences of not accepting. This is my last warning, there will not be another one! Thank you for your attention to this matter." However, Trump's post lacked specifics.

According to a report in Israel's Channel 12, the plan involves freeing all hostages on the first day of a truce, followed by broader discussions. In return, Israel would release Palestinian prisoners and pause its advance into Gaza City. These negotiations would occur under Trump's direct supervision, with the ceasefire maintained as long as talks continued, Times of Israel reported.

Hamas' Response and Conditions

Following Trump's ultimatum, Hamas issued a cautious response. They expressed readiness to negotiate immediately for prisoner release in exchange for a clear declaration to end the war, complete withdrawal from Gaza Strip, and forming an independent Palestinian committee to govern Gaza. "Hamas welcomes any move that helps the efforts to stop the aggression against our people," Times of Israel quotes statement, affirming that it received "some ideas from the American side aimed at reaching a ceasefire."

Hamas also mentioned being in "constant contact with mediators" to transform these ideas into a comprehensive agreement meeting their demands. Meanwhile, opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized Netanyahu's government for delaying negotiations despite mediator efforts. He emphasized that a hostage deal is possible and necessary.

International Pressure and Concerns

The proposed framework emerges amid growing international pressure against Israel's offensive in Gaza City. Critics argue that it endangers both hostages and soldiers. The conflict began on October 7, 2023, resulting in over 64,000 deaths in Gaza according to Hamas-run authorities and more than 460 Israeli soldiers killed.

A source close to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that while Israel hasn't confirmed acceptance of Trump's proposal yet, they are "very seriously considering" it. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged Israel to support the deal, describing it as a potential "breakthrough."