President Donald Trump is warning Hamas to release the hostages as Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt fielded questions about the U.S. being in talks with the militant group.
Trump posted on social media Wednesday that directed Hamas to send the hostages home “or it is OVER for you.”
“’Shalom Hamas’ means Hello and Goodbye – You can choose,” Trump started his post. “Release all of the Hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you. Only sick and twisted people keep bodies, and you are sick and twisted!”
Then Trump apparently threatened the group, saying, “not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say.”
“I have just met with your former Hostages whose lives you have destroyed. This is your last warning! For the leadership, now is the time to leave Gaza, while you still have a chance,” Trump added. “Also, to the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD! Make a SMART decision. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW, OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER!
Check out the post below:
In the meantime, Fox News White House correspondent Peter Doozy pressed Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt about the two sides being in talks, Mediaite reported.
“If the U.S. has a longstanding policy that we do not negotiate with terrorists,” Doocy said, “then why is the U.S. now negotiating directly — and for the first time ever — with Hamas?”
Doocy’s question comes on the heels of a report from Axios.
The report revealed the U.S. and Hamas were holding “secret talks” to release hostages in Gaza. Presidential envoy for hostage affairs Adam Boehler took part in the talks in Doha.
“Well, when it comes to the negotiations that you’re referring to,” Leavitt answered, “first of all, the special envoy who’s engaged in those negotiations does have the authority to talk to anyone. Israel was consulted on this matter. And, look, dialogue and talking to people around the world to do what’s in the best interest of the American people, is something that the president has proven is what he believes is good faith effort to do what’s right for the American people.”
Doocy also asked if the talks included Trump’s proposed takeover of the region or if the talks were solely about the hostages.
Leavitt did not offer anymore details.
