United States President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Hamas, setting a strict deadline for the militant group to accept Washington’s new peace plan for Gaza or face dire consequences.
In a statement shared on his Truth Social platform on Friday, Trump said Hamas must agree to the proposal by 6:00 p.m. Washington time (10:00 p.m. GMT) on Sunday. He stressed that failure to comply would trigger what he described as “unprecedented consequences” for the group.
The U.S. plan outlines an immediate halt to the ongoing conflict, alongside the release of at least 20 Israeli hostages still alive within 72 hours.
It also calls for the return of the remains of hostages believed to have died in captivity. In exchange, hundreds of Palestinians detained in Israeli prisons would be freed.
Diplomatic sources revealed that Arab and Turkish mediators are working behind the scenes to persuade Hamas to accept the terms.
However, a senior Hamas official has reportedly indicated that the group may turn down the offer, citing what they consider unfavourable conditions.
Trump, known for his uncompromising approach to Middle East negotiations, warned that this proposal represents a final chance for Hamas to avoid devastating consequences.
“This is the last opportunity to prevent what will be remembered as the harshest response ever faced by Hamas,” Trump wrote.
“Peace will come to the Middle East, whether through dialogue or through force.”
AFRIPOST reports that the coming days will be critical in determining whether the fragile mediation efforts can avert another escalation in the already volatile region.