US President Donald Trump has given Hamas an “ultimatum” to release hostages held in Gaza. He gave Hamas two options, explaining the meaning of ‘Shalom’ on his official handle: Release all the hostages now or face the consequences. “Shalom Hamas” means hello and goodbye – you can choose, Trump wrote in a Truth Social post. He warned that the hostages must be released immediately and the bodies of those killed must be returned, otherwise Hamas will be over.
Trump promised to provide Israel with all the resources needed to take action against Hamas. The White House confirmed direct talks with Hamas, which is contrary to America’s old policy. Trump warned that Hamas will have to pay a heavy price if the hostages are not released. He advised the Gaza leadership to leave and promised a beautiful future to the people of Gaza, but threatened death if the hostages are captured.
Trump met with recently released hostages and the White House confirmed talks with Hamas. Israel said there were still 59 hostages in Gaza, of whom 24 were believed to be alive. Meetings between the US and Hamas have taken place in Qatar, where Hamas has had a base since 2012. Qatar has played a key role in brokering a ceasefire in Gaza.