Okay News reports that US President Donald Trump has warned Hamas of possible “eradication” if it violates its truce with Israel. The announcement came as Vice President JD Vance traveled to the region to support the fragile Gaza peace deal.
Trump told reporters at the White House on Monday, “We made a deal with Hamas that they will behave. If they do not, we will eradicate them if necessary. They know the consequences.”
Despite recent violence, both Israel and Hamas have confirmed their commitment to the US-backed ceasefire. Israel reported that Hamas returned the body of one hostage on Monday, increasing the total returned to 13 of the 28 promised. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that full compliance by Hamas is critical for the agreement to succeed.
Hamas requested more time and technical help to complete the recovery of all hostages’ bodies. Vance is expected to discuss security and diplomacy with Israeli leaders during his visit.
The ceasefire, which began on October 10, sets rules for prisoner exchanges and a roadmap for Gaza’s future. However, challenges have already emerged. Israel carried out airstrikes on Gaza over the weekend after two Israeli soldiers were killed, resulting in at least 45 deaths according to Gaza authorities. Netanyahu accused Hamas of violating the truce, which Hamas denied.
Trump clarified that American forces would not directly engage Hamas but noted Israel could act quickly if requested. Israeli troops have fired at Gazans approaching ceasefire positions.
The plan leaves Israeli forces in control of parts of Gaza while main cities remain under Hamas authority. Media restrictions and limited access make independent verification difficult.
The conflict, triggered by Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack, has killed over 68,000 people in Gaza, including many women and children, according to local health authorities and the UN. The initial attack by Hamas killed more than 1,200 people, mostly civilians.
