Trump Calls for Destruction of Hamas Amid Ongoing Gaza Conflict

US President Donald Trump has stated that the remaining hostages in the Israel-Gaza war will only be released when Hamas is confronted and destroyed. His comments come as the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with thousands of Palestinians fleeing Israeli bombardment and tens of thousands of Israelis protesting for a ceasefire and the release of the hostages. The Israeli military has warned that expanding its offensive could put the remaining hostages at risk and lead to a protracted and deadly guerrilla warfare.

Key Takeaways:

  • The US President has called for the destruction of Hamas, saying that the remaining hostages will only be released when the group is confronted and destroyed.
  • Thousands of Palestinians have left their homes in eastern Gaza City due to constant Israeli bombardment, moving to points to the west and south in the shattered territory.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described Gaza City as Hamas' last big urban bastion, but the military has warned that expanding the offensive could endanger hostages still alive.
  • Hamas has told mediators that it is ready to resume talks about a US-proposed 60-day truce and release of half the hostages, as well as a wider deal to end the war.
  • The Israeli military has already taken control of 75% of Gaza, with the planned offensive potentially putting the remaining hostages at risk.
  • Tens of thousands of Israelis have protested for a ceasefire and the release of the hostages, with some of the largest protests since the war began.

Statistics:

  • 50 hostages are currently being held by Palestinian fighters in Gaza since October 7, 2023.
  • 75% of Gaza is currently under Israeli control, with the military warning that expanding the offensive could put the remaining hostages at risk.
  • Thousands of Palestinians have fled their homes in eastern Gaza City due to Israeli bombardment.
  • Tens of thousands of Israelis have protested for a ceasefire and the release of the hostages, with some of the largest protests since the war began.

Sources:

  • Reuters: "Trump calls for destruction of Hamas amid Gaza conflict"
  • Saudi Research and Publishing Co.: Copyright (no date)