Hamas Responds to Trump's Hostage Ultimatum and Calls for Palestinian State

Hamas's Stance on Hostages and Gaza

• 🎯 Hamas has responded to President Trump's ultimatum to release all remaining hostages, stating they have no intention of leaving Gaza.
• 🔑 A senior Hamas official emphasized that they will not lay down their weapons until a Palestinian state is established.
• 💬 Hamas insists that the only way to free the remaining hostages is through negotiations to end the current conflict.

International Pressure and Hostage Families

• ⚠️ President Trump issued an ultimatum demanding Hamas release hostages or face "over," with Special Envoy Steve Witkoff suggesting potential joint action with Israelis.
• 🗣️ Witkoff stressed that Hamas must hand over hostages and leave Gaza, though the exact implications remain unclear.
• 😠 Hostage families are expressing rage against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, blaming him for failed peace talks and urging Trump not to cooperate with him.
• 💔 Despair has replaced relief over the initial ceasefire, with Israel blocking aid to over 2 million Palestinians in Gaza.

Diplomatic Efforts

• ✈️ Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to visit the region next week, with stops planned in four different countries.