Hamas Rejects Trump’s Ultimatum, Sticks to Ceasefire Agreement
In a bold move, Hamas has dismissed President Donald Trump’s latest threat, insisting that the release of the remaining Israeli hostages will only occur as part of a lasting ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The militant group accuses Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of attempting to backtrack on the ceasefire agreement reached in January. This agreement outlines a two-phase process, with the second phase involving negotiations for the hostages’ release in exchange for more Palestinian prisoners, a permanent ceasefire, and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Protesters Demand Immediate Release of Hostages
Meanwhile, tensions are running high in Israel as demonstrators gathered in Tel Aviv, holding photos of the hostages held in Gaza. They demanded their immediate release from Hamas captivity. This public outcry underscores the emotional toll the hostage situation has taken on the families and the nation. The protest occurred just a day after Trump issued a stern warning to Hamas, following a meeting with eight former hostages.
Trump’s "Final Warning" and Unprecedented Talks
President Trump took to his Truth Social platform, issuing what he described as a "last warning" to Hamas. He demanded the immediate release of all hostages and the return of the bodies of those killed, threatening severe consequences if his demands were not met. Interestingly, the White House confirmed that it had engaged in direct, unprecedented talks with Hamas, a group designated as a terrorist organization by Israel and Western nations.
Hamas Holds Firm on Ceasefire Terms
Hamas continues to hold 24 living hostages and the remains of 34 others killed in the October 7, 2023 attack that sparked the war. Despite pressure from Israel and the U.S., Hamas rejected a new proposal that would have seen half of the remaining hostages released immediately, with the rest freed upon a permanent ceasefire. Hamas remains committed to the original January agreement, which Israel supports but Hamas has refused to amend.
Humanitarian Crisis Worsens in Gaza
The situation in Gaza is dire, with Israel severing the supply of essential goods like food, fuel, and medicine to pressure Hamas into accepting the new proposal. This blockade has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, leaving millions in Gaza without basic necessities. The U.S.-Hamas talks have yielded little progress, though experts suggest that direct U.S. involvement may deter Israel from resuming military action.
International Efforts for Reconstruction and Aid
Amid the chaos, Egypt has announced plans to host an international conference to secure funding for a $53 billion, five-year reconstruction plan for Gaza. This initiative, proposed at the Arab Summit in Cairo, aims to rebuild the war-torn region. However, the situation remains fragile, with the U.N. warning of a "perfect storm" due to U.S. aid cuts, which have severely impacted humanitarian efforts globally, including in Gaza.
