Trump Issues ‘Final Warning’ to Hamas as US Confirms Direct Hostage Negotiations

WASHINGTON, 6 March 2025 (BSS/AFP) – US President Donald Trump has issued what he termed a “final warning” to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of hostages held in Gaza.

“I am sending Israel everything it needs to finish the job. Not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say,” Trump declared in a lengthy post on his Truth Social platform.

His remarks came just hours after the White House confirmed that the US has engaged in direct negotiations with Hamas regarding the hostages. Until now, Washington had refrained from direct contact with the group, adhering to a longstanding policy of avoiding engagement with entities it designates as terrorist organisations.

In his strongly worded message, Trump warned that Hamas would face severe consequences if hostages were not freed, though he did not specify the exact nature of US support for Israel.

“Release all of the hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you,” he wrote. “For the leadership, now is the time to leave Gaza while you still have a chance.”

His statement also included a stark message directed at Gaza’s civilian population: “To the people of Gaza: A beautiful future awaits, but not if you hold hostages. If you do, you are DEAD!”

Direct US-Hamas Talks Confirmed

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that US officials have held direct discussions with Hamas in an effort to secure the release of American and other hostages. She stressed that Israel had been consulted prior to these talks.

“The President believes in doing what is best for the American people,” Leavitt said. She added that special envoy for hostages, Adam Boehler, had led a “good faith effort” to bring home US citizens.

According to a Palestinian source, two direct meetings have taken place between US representatives and Hamas, following earlier informal communications. Reports suggest that the discussions were held in Qatar, a key mediator in previous negotiations involving Hamas, Israel, and other parties.

Hostage Crisis and Diplomatic Challenges

Israel has reported that 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with up to 24 believed to be alive. Among them are several US citizens. The Axios news outlet first revealed details of the US-Hamas talks, indicating that negotiations in Doha covered both hostage releases and potential steps towards a broader ceasefire agreement.

Former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for the Middle East, Mick Mulroy, noted that Washington “needs to be more proactive” in ensuring the return of American hostages. However, he cautioned that independent US negotiations, if not closely coordinated with Israel, could complicate efforts to recover Israeli citizens.

Qatar’s Role in the Negotiations

Qatar has played a crucial role in facilitating discussions between Hamas, Israel, and Western powers. The Gulf state, a key US ally, hosts a major American airbase and has previously mediated sensitive negotiations involving groups such as the Taliban, Iran, and Russia. Hamas has maintained a political office in Doha since 2012, reportedly at the request of the Obama administration.

Alongside the US and Egypt, Qatar continues to lead efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza. However, with tensions escalating and the US now taking a more direct approach, the success of these diplomatic efforts remains uncertain.