Alexandar Sullivan:
President Donald Trump warned that Hamas faces “complete obliteration” if it refuses to cede power in Gaza, even as he pressed forward with his proposed 20-point ceasefire plan aimed at halting the conflict. In text messages to CNN’s Jake Tapper on Saturday, Trump responded to questions about Hamas’ position by writing simply: “Complete Obliteration!”
Trump’s remarks came amid conflicting signals over Hamas’ response. Sen. Lindsey Graham has said the group effectively rejected the proposal by demanding “no disarmament, keeping Gaza under Palestinian control and tying hostage release to negotiations.” When asked if Graham was wrong, Trump replied, “We will find out. Only time will tell!!!” but added he expects clarity “soon” on whether Hamas is serious about peace.
The president also confirmed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is “on board” with ending the bombing campaign and supports his broader vision. On social media, Trump announced that Israel has agreed to the initial withdrawal line laid out in his plan, calling it a “critical step” toward finalizing a ceasefire and securing the release of hostages.
“If Hamas agrees,” Trump wrote, “the Ceasefire will be IMMEDIATELY effective, the Hostages and Prisoner Exchange will begin, and we will create the conditions for the next phase of withdrawal.”
Trump added that Israel had temporarily halted its airstrikes in Gaza to facilitate negotiations. Yet CNN reported that at least 67 people were killed in Israeli strikes earlier Saturday, according to hospital officials.
Trump called the developments “unprecedented” and expressed hope his plan would bring an end to what he termed a “3,000 YEAR CATASTROPHE,” but warned Hamas to act swiftly or face the consequences.
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