US President Donald Trump has warned Hamas, demanding the immediate release of all hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, threatening dire consequences if they are not freed.

Trump threatened that if Hamas does not obey his order he would be providing Israel with everything necessary to “finish the job,” warning that “not a single Hamas member will be safe”.

Trump’s order follows shortly after the White House confirmed it was engaging in direct negotiations with Hamas regarding the hostages.

Until now, Washington has steered clear of direct interaction with the group, adhering to a long-standing U.S. policy that prohibits contact with organisations designated as terrorist groups.

Trump’s warning was contained in a statement he signed on Wednesday, March 05.

The statement reads: “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 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.

“I have just met with your former Hostages whose lives you have destroyed. This is your last warning! For the leadership, now is the time to leave Gaza, while you still have a chance.

“Also, to the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are dead! Make a smart decision. Release the hostages now or there will be hell to pay later!.”

Last December, former President Trump issued a stern warning, vowing that “all hell would break loose” if hostages were not released by the time he assumed office.

In his latest remarks, he reiterated his position on “rebuilding” Gaza, a statement that many interpreted as a veiled threat directed at the residents of the war-torn enclave.

Currently, Israel reports that 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with 24 believed to still be alive. Among those held are U.S. citizens.

The ceasefire brokered in January, which facilitated a swap of hostages between the two sides, now hangs in the balance. Hamas has stated that it will only release the remaining captives if Israel agrees to end its military operations.