US President Donald Trump has issued a warning to Hamas, stating that the Palestinian militant group will face severe consequences if it fails to disarm within a short period. The remarks were made during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida on Monday.
In early October, Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire as part of Trump’s 20-point peace plan, which includes the disarmament of Hamas and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Trump emphasized that Hamas will be given a limited timeframe to disarm, and if they fail to do so, they will face significant repercussions. When asked about the potential consequences, Trump stated that it would be “horrible” for Hamas and suggested that nations supporting the ceasefire would take action against the group.
The Israeli prime minister’s presence at the meeting highlights the ongoing efforts to implement the peace plan. However, the issue of Israeli forces withdrawing from Gaza remains a separate matter, according to Trump, who claimed that Israel has fully complied with the plan so far.
Hamas has consistently maintained its right to armed resistance, while indicating a willingness to discuss potential disarmament during the truce. The group’s armed wing reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire on Monday, despite alleging repeated Israeli violations. Nevertheless, Hamas has emphasized that it will not surrender its weapons as long as the occupation continues.
The disarmament of Hamas is a crucial prerequisite for the second phase of the peace plan, which involves the establishment of a new governance entity in Gaza. The first phase, including the ceasefire, return of hostages, and humanitarian aid, is largely in effect.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas escalated in October 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise attack that resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people and the taking of 250 hostages. The subsequent Israeli military campaign has claimed the lives of over 70,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health authorities. The situation remains a pressing concern, with the international community closely monitoring the developments and awaiting the next steps in the peace process.