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Trump warns Hamas: IDF will resume fighting ‘as soon as I say the word’

Trump’s comments come as Israel has criticized Hamas for not abiding by the agreement that it hand over hostages, living and dead, as part of a deal to end the fighting in Gaza.

By World Israel News Staff

President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Hamas on Wednesday, saying he may authorize Israel to resume military operations in Gaza if the group fails to fulfill the terms of the ceasefire agreement.

In an interview with CNN, Trump said Israeli troops could reenter Gaza “as soon as I say the word.”

“What’s going on with Hamas – that’ll be straightened out quickly,” he added during a brief phone call with the network.

Trump’s remarks followed growing frustration in Israel, where officials accuse Hamas of violating the deal by failing to deliver the remains of all hostages who were killed during captivity.

While twenty living hostages were freed and returned to Israel on Monday, only a small portion of the deceased victims’ bodies have been handed over so far.

Israeli officials say four bodies were transferred on Wednesday, including that of a Palestinian who reportedly assisted Israel.

Wednesday night, two more bodies were returned, althought they have not yet been identified. In total, Hamas has handed over 10 bodies since the ceasefire took effect.

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The delay in returning additional remains has prompted Israel to warn the United Nations that humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza may be reduced or postponed until Hamas complies with the agreement.

For now, however, the ceasefire remains in effect.

According to Trump’s 20-point peace plan, “Within 72 hours of Israel publicly accepting this agreement, all hostages, alive and deceased, will be returned.”

Trump also commented on ongoing unrest in Gaza, saying Hamas is currently “going in and clearing out the gangs, violent gangs.” When asked whether the group might be executing civilians, he replied, “I’m doing research on it,” adding, “We’ll find out about it. It could be gangs plus.”

The peace plan outlines potential leniency for Hamas members who disarm and accept peaceful coexistence with Israel. “Once all hostages are returned, Hamas members who commit to peaceful coexistence and to decommissioning their weapons will be given amnesty. Members of Hamas who wish to leave Gaza will be provided safe passage to receiving countries,” the plan states.

Still, several Hamas officials have made clear that the organization has no intention of disarming, signaling that implementing Trump’s 20-point proposal could face significant obstacles in the weeks ahead.