Hamas has now reportedly rejected the ultimatum issued by President Donald Trump, which threatened to send Israeli hostages held in Gaza to “hell” if they are not released by noon on Saturday.
Hamas has stated that the ceasefire agreement that was agreed upon is the “only way” to ensure the freedom of the remaining detainees.
“The language of threats has no value and further complicates matters. Trump must remember that there is an agreement that must be respected by both parties and this is the only way to return the prisoners.” a Hamas official said.
Donald Trump made the statement after he warned reporters at the White House on Monday that if the terrorist organization that is in authority in Gaza would not release all of the hostages, then “all bets are off” and he would cancel the ceasefire in order to “let hell break out.”
On the heels of Hamas’ announcement that it intended to postpone the next hostage release, citing alleged Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement, President Trump issued his dangerous threat.
The organization asserted that Israel prevented Palestinians who had been displaced from returning to northern Gaza and prevented humanitarian aid from reaching them. Israel has denied these allegations.
After Hamas’ invasion of Israel in October 2023, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 people and the kidnapping of 251 more, the ceasefire that was mediated this month brought an end to the hostilities that had been going on for more than a year.
In exchange for thousands of Palestinian captives and a cessation of hostilities, the agreement stipulates that Hamas must free people who are being held as hostages.
[READ MORE: Israel Begins Key Pull Out as Part of Ceasefire Deal With Hamas]
Hamas has a 100% record of breaking agreements.