Trump issues Hamas a “last warning”

US presidents don’t typically talk to organizations the US government has labeled terrorist groups, but Donald Trump is not a typical US president. A few hours after the White House confirmed it was holding direct talks with Hamas over the remaining Israeli and US hostages it holds, Trump took to hisTruth Social account to fire off a warning: Cooperate or die.

“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 US president wrote as part of what he called a “last warning.” The language of his post was direct, even by Trump standards: “I am sending Israel everything it needs to finish the job, not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say,” he wrote. “Also, to the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD!”

Hamas hasaccused Trump of encouraging Israel to end the ceasefire and resume the war. The Israeli government says there are 59 hostages remaining in Gaza, and as many as two dozen are believed to be alive. Israel has released hundreds of Palestinians from its custody.