Trump says Gaza deal possibly 'soon' after 'last warning' to Hamas
Critics say Trump’s claims of progress on Gaza captives mask reckless threats and a lack of real diplomacy in his approach to the ongoing Israeli genocide.
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US President Donald Trump deplanes Air Force One upon arriving at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025 (AP)
US President Donald Trump boasted on Sunday that a breakthrough was near in efforts to secure the release of Israeli captives in Gaza, only hours after issuing a menacing “last warning” to the Palestinian Resistance movement, Hamas.
Speaking to reporters upon his return to Washington from a brief trip to New York, Trump noted that he had been working on the matter during his flight. “We’re working on a solution that may be very good,” he claimed, adding, “You’ll be hearing about it pretty soon. We’re trying to get it ended, get the hostages back.” He declined to share further details.
Earlier, Trump had taken to his Truth Social platform to press Hamas to accept his terms. “The Israelis have accepted my Terms. It is time for Hamas to accept as well,” he wrote. “I have warned Hamas about the consequences of not accepting. This is my last warning, there will not be another one!”
Hamas response
In a statement, Hamas confirmed that it had received suggestions via US mediators aimed at reaching a ceasefire, though it withheld details. The movement reiterated its willingness to negotiate the release of captives in exchange for “a clear announcement of an end to the war” and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Trump told reporters he expected a full return of the captives. “I think we’re going to get them all,” he said, while acknowledging that some may already be dead. “The aim would be to have their bodies returned,” he added.
Possible deal framework
On Saturday, "Israel’s" N12 News reported that Trump had put forward a new ceasefire proposal. According to the outlet, the plan would see Hamas release all 48 remaining captives on the first day of a truce in exchange for thousands of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. The deal would also include negotiations to end the war during the ceasefire.
An Israeli official confirmed that the government was “seriously considering” the proposal but did not provide further comment.
While Trump has portrayed the potential agreement as a step toward ending the Israeli war, questions persist over whether it could instead serve as a diplomatic prelude to a larger offensive, particularly amid Netanyahu’s call for the occupation of Gaza City.