Gaza City, March 6, 2025 – Hamas has accused U.S. President Donald Trump of jeopardizing the fragile ceasefire in Gaza by issuing an ultimatum demanding the immediate release of Israeli hostages. The militant group contends that such threats embolden Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to abandon the ceasefire agreement, thereby exacerbating tensions in the region.
The current ceasefire, brokered with U.S. support, has been in effect since January 19, 2025. However, negotiations for its second phase have stalled, primarily over the issue of hostages. President Trump’s recent ultimatum, delivered via social media, warned that unless all hostages are released immediately, the people of Gaza would be “DEAD.”
In response, Hamas spokesperson Abdel-Latif Al-Qanoua stated that such threats encourage Israel to evade its commitments under the ceasefire agreement. He emphasized that the release of hostages should be part of a comprehensive and lasting truce, rather than a unilateral action under duress.
The situation remains precarious, with humanitarian aid to Gaza reportedly blocked for five consecutive days, increasing the risk of a humanitarian crisis. International actors continue to urge both parties to adhere to the ceasefire and engage in constructive negotiations to achieve lasting peace.
