US President Donald Trump has warned that Hamas will face 'complete obliteration' if it refuses to relinquish power in Gaza, as ceasefire negotiations continue. In an interview with CNN, Trump stated that his ally Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is on board with the plan, which requires Hamas to release all 48 hostages, give up control, and disarm in exchange for an end to Israel's military assault and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
Hamas has agreed to three points of Trump's proposal: releasing all hostages, surrendering power, and the withdrawal of Israeli troops. However, the group insists that further negotiations are needed on the remaining aspects, particularly disarmament and a timetable for Israel's withdrawal. Hamas views the deal as part of a 'collective national stance' and wants to discuss the thornier issues with other Palestinian factions.
The Gaza health ministry reports that at least 67,139 Palestinians have been killed and 169,583 injured since October 7, 2023. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Israel's war in Gaza has 'not yet' ended, describing hostage release as the first phase, with further details to be worked out.
In related developments, Israel deported 29 activists detained for participating in a flotilla attempting to deliver aid to Gaza. Greece has offered diplomatic assistance to end the conflict, while hundreds of thousands marched in European cities in support of Palestinians. Fifteen Italian citizens arrested during the flotilla interception are set to leave Israel on Monday, following the departure of 26 others over the weekend.
