Hamas says Trump threats encourage Netanyahu to evade Gaza ceasefire deal
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The Gaza ceasefire deal calls for remaining hostages to be freed in a second phase, during which final plans would be negotiated for an end to the war.
PHOTO: REUTERS
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CAIRO – Hamas said on March 6 that US President Donald Trump’s repeated threats against Palestinians
Mr Trump demanded on March 5 that Hamas “release all of the hostages now, not later”, including the remains of dead hostages, “or it is over for you”.
In a text message to Reuters, Hamas spokesperson Abdel-Latif Al-Qanoua said: “The best track to release the remaining Israeli prisoners is by the occupation going into the second phase and compelling it to adhere to the agreement signed under the sponsorship of mediators.”
The Gaza ceasefire deal which came into effect in January was negotiated with Mr Trump’s envoy participating alongside envoys of the outgoing Biden administration. It calls for remaining hostages to be freed in a second phase, during which final plans would be negotiated for an end to the war.
The first phase of the ceasefire ended on March 1
Palestinians say the blockade could lead to starvation among the 2.3 million people living in Gaza’s ruins.
Mr Trump made his new threats after a White House meeting on March 5 with a group of hostages who had been released in the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal.
“I am sending Israel everything it needs to finish the job, not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say,” he said. “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!” REUTERS
