US President Donald Trump has issued what he called a “last warning” to Hamas to release the hostages being held in Gaza.
“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,” Trump said in a lengthy post on his Truth Social platform.
Trump’s “last warning” comes just hours after the White House confirmed it is holding direct talks with Hamas over the hostages.
Washington has until now avoided direct engagement with the group, and there is a longstanding US policy against having direct contact with entities it lists as terrorist organisations, the BBC reports.
Trump said in a social media post that there would be “hell to pay” if the hostages were not released, while not specifying the nature of the support he was sending Israel.
“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 added.
“For the leadership, now is the time to leave Gaza while you still have a chance,” Trump went on, appearing to threaten civilians: “Also, to the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD!”
