U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a warning to Hamas, demanding the release of all Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Trump’s ultimatum comes shortly after the U.S. initiated direct talks with Hamas. He stated that this is the “final warning” and shared the message through a post on his official X page. Trump also warned of severe consequences if the hostages were not released.
Meanwhile, essential goods in Gaza, including food, fuel, and medicine, are becoming increasingly scarce following Israel’s suspension of supply deliveries. The cost of necessities has skyrocketed, with the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) confirming that Gaza’s existing food stocks were already depleted during the first phase of the ceasefire agreement. Only two weeks’ worth of reserves remain, and the prices of vegetables and grains continue to surge.
Israel claims the blockade is part of efforts to pressure Hamas into accepting a ceasefire deal. However, Israel is delaying the transition to the second phase of the ceasefire agreement. It is believed that humanitarian aid to Gaza will continue in this phase, but Israel has stated that the blockade is intended to increase pressure on Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also hinted at the possibility of cutting off Gaza’s electricity supply entirely if Hamas refuses to accept the agreement.
