Trump Issues Final Warning to Hamas as Israel Enforces Total Gaza Blockade
In a major escalation of tensions in the Middle East, former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stern ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of Israeli hostages. Meanwhile, Israel has reinforced its blockade on Gaza, further exacerbating the region’s humanitarian crisis.
Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas
On Wednesday, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to deliver what he called a “last warning” to Hamas. He demanded the immediate release of hostages and the return of the bodies of those killed, stating:
“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 also warned that if Hamas did not comply, its members would face severe consequences, saying, “Not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say.”
His strong rhetoric came after a White House meeting with eight hostages who had been freed from Gaza, underscoring the growing urgency of the situation.
In a rare move, the Biden administration has confirmed it is engaging in direct negotiations with Hamas to secure the release of the remaining hostages. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that a special envoy has been given the authority to “talk to anyone” to resolve the crisis.
Hamas Responds, Accuses Trump and Netanyahu of Backtracking
Hamas quickly dismissed Trump’s ultimatum, insisting that any hostage release must be part of a negotiated agreement. The group accused both Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of abandoning a previously agreed-upon ceasefire deal that included provisions for hostage exchanges.
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem warned that Trump’s statements could derail ongoing negotiations, saying they might “complicate matters regarding the ceasefire agreement” and embolden Israel to avoid honoring its commitments.
Israel Enforces Total Blockade on Gaza
As tensions rise, Israel has intensified its blockade on Gaza, cutting off essential supplies, including food, fuel, and medical aid. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced, “We are putting a complete siege on Gaza… No electricity, no food, no water, no gas – it’s all closed.”
Israel’s blockade, aimed at pressuring Hamas, has drawn international criticism. Humanitarian groups warn that the siege is pushing Gaza’s 2.3 million residents to the brink of catastrophe. The World Food Program reports that food supplies are dwindling, and fuel for essential services is nearly exhausted.
Human rights organizations have condemned the blockade as a “starvation policy,” urging immediate international intervention.
International Response and Humanitarian Concerns
The United Nations has denounced Israel’s total blockade, warning that depriving civilians of essential goods may constitute a war crime under international law. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk stated that collective punishment of civilians is prohibited and called for an urgent resolution to the crisis.
As the situation in Gaza worsens, pressure is mounting on world leaders to broker a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages. However, with Trump’s hardline stance and Israel’s continued military actions, a peaceful resolution remains uncertain.
Source : Swifteradio.com
