Trump says Hamas rejected a Gaza truce deal because it fears what happens after the hostages are released. The US president also claimed Hamas “wants to die” and vowed they would be “hunted down.” Talks have stalled, with both US and Israeli envoys withdrawing.
United States President Donald Trump has blamed Hamas for the apparent collapse of ongoing ceasefire talks in Gaza, warning that the group would be “hunted down.” Speaking at the White House on Friday, Trump said, “We’re down to the final hostages, and they know what happens after you get the final hostages… they really didn’t want to make a deal.”
The US and Israeli negotiators have reportedly withdrawn from the Qatar-based talks, citing Hamas’s “lack of desire” to reach an agreement. Hamas, however, maintains it has shown a “constructive and positive” approach and still supports a permanent ceasefire.
Trump’s remarks, including that “they want to die,” indicate a hardening US stance amid humanitarian concerns. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz previously revealed plans to use a truce to relocate Palestinians from Gaza, while Prime Minister Netanyahu has vowed to “finish the job.”
Trump also dismissed France’s recognition of Palestine, saying, “What he says doesn’t matter. It’s not going to change anything.”