The first phase of a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict ended over the weekend after six weeks of relative calm, which included exchanges of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.
During this time, U.S. President Donald Trump warned that further destruction could occur in Gaza if all remaining hostages are not released. He urged Hamas leaders to flee, stating that they are running out of time.
The U.S. has confirmed it is holding unprecedented indirect talks with Hamas, which it labels a “terrorist” group, focusing on American hostages in Gaza. Trump expressed strong support for Israel, saying he is providing the country with everything it needs to continue its military operations.
On his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, “Release all of the hostages now, not later, and return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you. This is your last warning! Now is the time to leave Gaza, while you still have a chance.”
He also warned the people of Gaza, saying, “A beautiful future awaits, but not if you hold hostages. If you do, you are DEAD!”
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed Trump’s sentiments, warning of “consequences that you cannot imagine” if Hamas does not release the remaining hostages taken during the October 7 attack.
While Israel wants to extend the ceasefire until mid-April, Hamas is pushing for a transition to a second phase that would lead to a lasting ceasefire. In response, Israel has increased pressure by halting the flow of goods and supplies into Gaza.
Israel’s new military chief, Eyal Zamir, stated, “Hamas has indeed suffered a severe blow, but it has not yet been defeated. The mission is not yet accomplished.”
Meanwhile, France, Britain, and Germany have described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as “catastrophic” and urged Israel to allow unhindered delivery of aid. South Africa criticized Israel’s restrictions on aid, claiming it amounts to using starvation as a weapon of war.
Residents in Gaza are struggling with basic needs. Abu Hammam al-Hasanat, a 34-year-old resident, shared, “We lack drinking water. People are complaining of lack of water in general. We cannot get rid of the waste, which affects the groundwater.”
