U.S. President Donald Trump recently issued a severe ultimatum to Hamas, accompanied by a direct threat towards the civilian population of Gaza. In his official statement, Trump demanded Hamas immediately release all hostages and return the bodies of those killed. He warned that failure to comply would result in providing Israel “everything it needs” to eliminate the movement altogether.
“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 stated. In a troubling extension, he directly addressed the civilians in Gaza, declaring they would face death if they continued to support or harbor hostage-taking, sparking significant international concern.
"'Shalom Hamas' means Hello and Goodbye – 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. Only sick and twisted people keep bodies, and you are sick and twisted! I am… pic.twitter.com/88EjVAyWAe
— President Donald J. Trump (@POTUS) March 5, 2025
Trump’s statement follows his emotional meeting in Washington with previously held Israeli hostages, creating an intense backdrop for this latest proclamation. However, the extreme nature of his rhetoric has drawn widespread criticism from international observers, human rights groups, and political analysts. They argue that such statements could escalate tensions, incite further conflict, and jeopardize innocent lives.
Analysts highlight the stark contrast between Trump’s recent aggressive stance and his past calls for peace in the region. Historically, Trump has frequently emphasized the importance of diplomatic solutions, but his current messaging marks a notable shift toward explicit threats and ultimatums.
Foreign policy experts have expressed concern that this aggressive stance may harm the United States’ international reputation and further inflame regional tensions. Some analysts warn that Trump’s approach may endanger more civilians than Hamas members, who were the intended recipients of the threat.
"I am sending Israel everything it needs to finish the job, not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say… RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW, OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER!" –President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/l5k5GU8nEy
— President Donald J. Trump (@POTUS) March 5, 2025
Israeli officials, on the other hand, have warmly welcomed Trump’s support, emphasizing its necessity for continued operations against Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remarked that Trump’s backing would aid Israel in achieving decisive victory.
Despite Israel’s position, international observers caution that such extreme rhetoric risks triggering a new humanitarian crisis and complicating ongoing international peace efforts aimed at protecting civilian lives.
For further analysis on U.S. foreign policy developments, visit the Azat TV World Section