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President Donald Trump on Sunday delivered what he described as his “last warning” to Hamas, pressing the Palestinian militant group to accept a U.S.-brokered deal that would free hostages held in Gaza and open the way for a ceasefire.
“The Israelis have accepted my Terms. It is time for Hamas to accept as well,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. “I have warned Hamas about the consequences of not accepting. This is my last warning, there will not be another one!”
Trump’s remarks signal an escalation in his direct involvement in the ceasefire negotiations, which have dragged on for weeks amid pressure from regional mediators and mounting humanitarian concerns in Gaza.
Hamas response
In a statement released hours later, Hamas confirmed it had received new ideas from U.S. mediators and said it was reviewing them with regional partners. The group stopped short of commenting directly on Trump’s ultimatum but reiterated its conditions for a comprehensive agreement: a full end to the war and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Hamas also signaled readiness to negotiate a hostage release deal, saying it was open to “developing ideas” put forward by mediators.
Trump optimistic on breakthrough
Speaking to reporters while returning to Washington from New York, Trump suggested a deal was within reach.
“I think we’re going to have a deal on Gaza very soon,” he said. “I think we’re going to get them all — the hostages, dead or alive.”
The president did not provide specifics, but Israeli broadcaster N12 News reported Saturday that Trump’s latest proposal includes a significant prisoner swap. Under the plan, Hamas would release all 48 remaining hostages on the first day of a truce in exchange for thousands of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. Negotiations over an end to the war would take place during the ceasefire.
Israeli position
An Israeli official, speaking anonymously to discuss sensitive talks, confirmed the government was “seriously considering” Trump’s plan but declined to elaborate on its terms. Israeli officials have consistently demanded that any hostage deal also include security guarantees.
The fate of the remaining hostages has been a central obstacle in reaching a ceasefire. Israel has faced increasing domestic and international pressure to prioritize their release, while Hamas has sought assurances of a permanent end to the conflict.
High-stakes moment
Trump’s ultimatum underscores the high stakes of the negotiations. By framing his proposal as a final warning, the president has raised expectations that Washington will consider stronger measures if Hamas refuses.
It also highlights the delicate balancing act for Trump, who is simultaneously trying to reassure Israel of U.S. backing while pressing Hamas and its regional allies toward compromise.
