Donald Trump has issued a stark ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of all hostages or risk the US providing Israel with everything necessary to “finish the job.”
The former President made his warning public on Truth Social shortly after meeting with eight freed hostages at the Oval Office.
Trump’s statement signals a sharp contrast between his approach to Israel and his recent decision to halt military aid to Ukraine amid peace negotiations.
“‘Shalom Hamas’ means Hello and Goodbye – You can choose,” Trump wrote on Wednesday afternoon. “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.”
The former President went further, condemning the militant group: “Only sick and twisted people keep bodies, and you are sick and twisted!” He then vowed to send Israel “everything it needs to finish the job,” adding, “not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say.”
Trump emphasized the suffering of those taken hostage, stating, “I have just met with your former hostages whose lives you have destroyed. This is your last warning!”
Among those Trump met at the White House were Noa Argamani, Iair Horn, Naama Levy, Eli Sharabi, Aviva Siegel, Keith Siegel, Doron Steinbrecher, and Omer Shem Tov.
According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Trump “listened intently to their heartbreaking stories” and was thanked for advocating for their release.
The former President also addressed the people of Gaza, stating, “A beautiful future awaits, but not if you hold hostages. If you do, you are DEAD!” He warned Hamas leaders that now was their “last chance” to leave Gaza.
Trump concluded his statement with a final ultimatum: “Make a SMART decision. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW, OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER.”
According to Karoline Leavitt, the US administration has been in direct communication with Hamas to negotiate the release of remaining hostages.
Trump has previously issued similar warnings, including in December, when he stated that if hostages were not freed before January 20, 2025, the date he assumes office, there would be “ALL HELL TO PAY in the Middle East.”
Meanwhile, the six-week ceasefire between Israel and Hamas ended on Saturday, with no new agreement reached to continue peace talks.
