US President Donald Trump has warned Hamas against any delays in finalising a ceasefire agreement, even as Israel continues to bomb the Gaza Strip, leaving at least 70 people dead.
The warning came as negotiations between Israel and Hamas are set to take place in Cairo, following Trump’s proposed Gaza peace plan, which aims to end nearly two years of devastating conflict.
Trump Sends Kushner, Witkoff to Cairo Talks
Trump has dispatched his son-in-law Jared Kushner and senior aide Steve Witkoff to represent the United States in the Egypt talks. According to the White House, both envoys will join mediators to oversee the hostage exchange and ceasefire implementation process.
“Any delays will not be tolerated,” Trump warned on Truth Social, adding that Hamas must act swiftly or “all bets will be off.”
Ceasefire Discussions Underway
The AFP reported that delegations from Israel and Hamas have arrived in Cairo to negotiate the terms of a truce. The discussions focus on releasing Israeli hostages and outlining the administration of post-war Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed optimism, saying he hoped the captives would be freed within days. “With G-d’s help, I hope to inform you soon of the return of all our hostages — both living and deceased — during the Sukkot holiday,” he said.
‘Now or Never’: Trump’s Message to Tel Aviv Rally
Trump shared an image from a massive Tel Aviv rally, where thousands gathered demanding the release of hostages. The crowd held a banner reading “It’s now or never.”
He confirmed that Israel has agreed to an initial withdrawal line under the proposed ceasefire framework. Once Hamas approves, both sides are expected to carry out a simultaneous hostage and prisoner exchange.
Israeli Strikes Continue Despite Ceasefire Push
Despite Trump’s demand to halt attacks, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza on Saturday killed at least 70 people, including several children.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said they were targeting a Hamas militant who posed a threat to Israeli troops. “The military regrets any harm caused to uninvolved civilians and works to mitigate it as much as possible,” the IDF said in a statement.
Netanyahu Vows to Disarm Hamas
Netanyahu reaffirmed that disarming Hamas remains Israel’s top priority. “Hamas will be disarmed and Gaza demilitarized,” he stated, adding that the process would occur “either through the Trump Plan or by military means.”
“This will happen the easy way or the hard way — but it will happen,” Netanyahu said.
