Trump threatens Palestinians as Washington holds direct talks with Hamas

The White House chief of staff, on his Truth Social page, demanded that Hamas immediately release all Israeli prisoners and hand over the bodies of the dead: "Or you will lose everything."

Trump did not limit himself to threatening Hamas, but also warned the residents of the Gaza Strip. In doing so, he made it clear that ordinary Palestinians would face collective punishment if Washington's demands were not met.

"People of Gaza: a wonderful future awaits you, but it won't happen if you keep the hostages. If you do, you will perish! Make a wise decision. Release the hostages now, or you will have to pay a very heavy price later!" the US leader warned.

A ceasefire has been in effect in the Gaza Strip since January 19 as part of an agreement between Hamas and Israel. The document provides for the exchange of Israeli prisoners of war for Palestinian political prisoners, the restoration of the Gaza Strip, the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops, the delivery of humanitarian aid, fire protection equipment and other assistance to the enclave. However, the Israeli side is sabotaging the implementation of the agreement.

More than 46,000 people have been killed in the 15-month-long Gaza war, while Israel has estimated that there have been around 1,500 deaths on its territory.