President Donald Trump delivered an ominous threat Wednesday to Hamas and the "people of Gaza" amid escalating hostage negotiations.
“'Shalom Hamas' means Hello and Goodbye," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.
"You can choose. 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," Trump wrote. "Only sick and twisted people keep bodies, and you are sick and twisted!"
He said he's sending Israel what they need "to finish the job" in Gaza.
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On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups launched a coordinated attack on southern Israel, resulting in numerous civilian casualties and hostage-taking. Around 1,200 people were killed.
"Not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say," Trump warned. "I have just met with your former Hostages whose lives you have destroyed. This is your last warning! For the leadership, now is the time to leave Gaza, while you still have a chance."
Trump reiterated his promise that when the U.S. takes over Gaza it will be "beautiful." He previously proposed relocating Palestinians out of Gaza to neighboring countries, including Egypt and Jordan.
Asked whether Palestinians would have the right to return to Gaza, Trump told Fox News: “No, they wouldn’t because they’re going to have much better housing. In other words, I’m talking about building a permanent place for them.”
The Geneva Conventions prevent the “mass forcible transfers” from occupied lands “regardless of their motive.”
"Also, to the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages," Trump said. "If you do, you are DEAD! Make a SMART decision. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW, OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER!"
