US President Trump Issues Ultimatum to Hamas Over Gaza
US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Hamas, stating that the group will face complete obliteration
or total annihilation
if it fails to cede power and control in Gaza. This ultimatum, part of the President's proposed 20-point peace plan, comes amid ongoing conflict in the region.
Background and Context
The ongoing conflict in Gaza began two years ago, on October 7, 2023, when Palestinian armed groups launched an attack on Israel that resulted in about 1,200 deaths and approximately 250 hostages. Despite attempts at a truce and mediation by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, hostilities have continued.
Trump's peace plan, which could potentially end the nearly two-year war, includes an immediate ceasefire, a hostages-for-prisoners exchange, a phased Israeli withdrawal, and a transitional international administration. The plan also envisions Gaza as a deradicalized, terror-free zone,
where Hamas is excluded from governance.
The Ultimatum
President Trump's ultimatum to Hamas, issued on CNN, underscored the urgency of the situation. Hamas is either going to be doing it or it’s not, and if it’s not, it’s going to be a sad end,
he warned. The President set a deadline for Hamas to respond, stating that we’re gonna do about three or four days.
The ultimatum has been met with mixed reactions. Some factions within Hamas are considering accepting the plan unconditionally, while others are seeking guarantees or amendments. Key sticking points include disarmament, expulsion of Hamas leaders, and complete withdrawal of Israel from the Gaza Strip.
Reactions and Implications
Reactions to Trump's ultimatum and the peace plan have been varied. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed support for the plan, but also faces pressure from his far-right allies. This support could potentially determine his political future, as acceptance of the plan could either bolster his government or lead to its collapse.
On the other hand, Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya has expressed the group's need for real guarantees
that Israel will put a permanent end to the war. He stated, We are not dealing [with the plan] under the logic that time is a sword pointed at our neck,
indicating that the group is still deliberating.
Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has noted that the Trump administration is open to recognizing a Palestinian state in the future if Hamas agrees to relinquish power.
Current Status
As the deadline for Hamas's response approaches, the situation remains delicate. The group's decision could either pave the way for peace or escalate the conflict further. As President Trump emphasized, TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE OR, MASSIVE BLOODSHED WILL FOLLOW.
The world watches as the future of Gaza hangs in the balance.