US President Donald Trump issued what he called his “final ultimatum” to Hamas, warning the group to release all Israeli hostages or face severe consequences. In a Truth Social post filled with capital-letter threats, Trump wrote: “HELL TO PAY LATER!”, calling Hamas “sick and twisted” and urging the immediate return of captives.
His warning came just hours after meeting eight recently freed Israeli hostages at the Oval Office, a session his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, described as “a really emotional experience” for Trump.
‘You better let them out’
In a video from the meeting, the former hostages were heard telling Trump they believed he was “sent by God” to save them and the others still held in Gaza. Trump’s response was direct:
“We said you better let us have those people back. You better let them out. … And something happened.”
Now, he says, the focus is on securing the release of the remaining hostages, including 21-year-old American Edan Alexander, who is reportedly injured.
What happens next?
Witkoff warned that “some action” is coming. Whether it will be coordinated with Israel or taken unilaterally by the US remains unclear. But Trump’s message is simple: Hamas must comply—or else.
1. Israel goes scorched earth with Trump’s support
Trump has already pledged “everything Israel needs to finish the job”, removing restrictions on US military aid. His administration has approved nearly $12 billion in arms sales to Israel, rolling back Biden-era limits on foreign military assistance.
This means Israel could intensify its Gaza operations without concerns over US pressure to curb civilian casualties.
2. Secret US-Hamas talks bypass Israel
In a stunning move, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Trump’s team has entered direct negotiations with Hamas—potentially sidelining Israel.
Israeli officials, caught off guard, are reportedly “outraged” by Washington’s secret talks. A senior Israeli source told Israel Hayom, “This is a very problematic move, to say the least.”
Despite this, top US hostage negotiator Adam Boehler has been in recent contact with Hamas, pushing for the release of Alexander and other captives.
3. Choking off Gaza’s aid
Israel has already cut off humanitarian aid, tightening the siege in a bid to force Hamas’ hand. Netanyahu has warned that no relief will come unless all hostages are freed, despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations.
Humanitarian groups say Gaza’s supplies could run out in two weeks, with aid restrictions potentially violating international law.
4. Trump’s Gaza ‘Riviera’ plan
Trump has floated a radical vision for Gaza’s future—expelling Palestinians and turning it into a luxury resort. He suggested relocating Gazans to other Middle Eastern countries while the US “owns” the territory and transforms it into the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
The proposal has triggered international outrage, with critics calling it a war crime. But Trump remains undeterred, saying Gaza could have “big potential”—if the right people are in charge.
The clock is ticking
With Trump’s “last warning” now issued, all eyes are on Hamas. Will the militants comply—or will Trump make good on his threat? Either way, the next move could change the course of the war.
