Trump issues 'last warning' to Hamas to accept hostage deal
NBC1 day
Trump Issues 'Last Warning' to Hamas on Gaza Ceasefire Deal
Above:Â Donald Trump, during a remembrance event to mark the first anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel, Florida, Oct. 7, 2024Â Image copyright:Â CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
President Trump's decisive leadership is finally breaking through the diplomatic deadlock that's prolonged this devastating conflict for nearly two years. His direct approach — offering clear terms with real consequences — embodies the strong negotiation Hamas understands. The proposal offers a clear path to secure all hostages immediately while respecting Israel's security via continued oversight.
Establishment-critical narrative
This ultimatum looks less like a path to peace than political cover for Israel's destruction of Gaza City. It pressures Hamas to give up leverage on day one in exchange for vague U.S. promises, echoing past broken deals. Coming amid heavy bombardment, it risks shifting blame to Palestinians while the assault continues.
Pro-Palestine narrative
Any deal must guarantee an end to the war, Israel's withdrawal, and Palestinian control of Gaza. Hamas rejects humiliating terms that demand all its leverage on day one while bombs still fall. Hamas welcomes any move that contributes to ending the aggression and is willing to sit at the negotiating table to discuss the release of all captives in exchange for a clear declaration ending the war.
Pro-Israel narrative
After the Oct. 7 massacre, Israel has shown that Jewish blood is no longer cheap. Targeting Hamas and Islamic Jihad, Israel is acting decisively to hold perpetrators accountable while minimizing civilian casualties. Israel remains open to a ceasefire, but only if Hamas ends attacks, disarms, releases hostages, and guarantees Israel's security.