President Donald Trump has issued a grave warning to Hamas, declaring that the militant group faces “complete obliteration” if it refuses to relinquish power and control of Gaza. His remarks come as efforts intensify to implement his 20-point ceasefire proposal aimed at halting the conflict and securing the release of hostages.
Trump’s comments were made in response to questions about reports that Hamas had rejected key elements of his peace plan — specifically, the requirement for disarmament and the unconditional release of captives. In his usual direct style, Trump replied, “We will find out. Only time will tell!” He added that clarity on Hamas’s commitment to peace would emerge “soon,” underscoring that the group’s response would determine its fate.
According to Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to the initial withdrawal line outlined in the U.S. ceasefire proposal. The plan envisions an immediate cessation of hostilities once Hamas provides its official confirmation. Following that, a hostage and prisoner exchange would commence as part of a broader strategy to end years of bloodshed in the region.
Trump shared updates on social media, stating, “Israel has agreed to the initial withdrawal line, which we have shown to Hamas. When Hamas confirms, the ceasefire will be IMMEDIATELY effective, and we will move toward ending this 3,000-year catastrophe.” He emphasized that this agreement marks a pivotal moment that could bring peace closer than ever before.
The president also noted that Israel has temporarily halted airstrikes to give Hamas time to respond and to establish conditions for the next phase of troop withdrawal. Despite these efforts, reports from Gaza indicate that dozens of people have been killed in renewed strikes, showing how fragile the situation remains on the ground.
Trump has repeatedly framed his ceasefire plan as the last viable opportunity for peace in Gaza. His 20-point proposal requires Hamas to relinquish its authority in the enclave, release all hostages, and disarm. In return, the plan offers a roadmap for reconstruction, governance reforms, and the eventual path toward Palestinian self-determination — but only if Hamas steps aside peacefully.
On Friday, Trump described Hamas’s preliminary response as “positive” and called the moment “unprecedented.” Still, his warning stands: if Hamas refuses to comply, Israel — with Washington’s full support — will proceed with actions to ensure the group’s complete dismantlement.
For Trump, the coming days may define whether his ambitious peace plan succeeds or collapses into renewed chaos. “The choice is Hamas’s to make,” he said. “They can choose peace — or face total destruction.”
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