US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning against Hamas, stating that the militant group could face ‘eradication’ if it fails to honor the Gaza ceasefire agreement with Israel. Speaking to reporters at the White House on Monday, Trump expressed that he would ‘straighten it out’ if Hamas does not comply with the agreement. However, he also allowed Hamas a ‘little chance’ to adhere to the terms. This comes amid renewed violence in the Gaza Strip following a Palestinian attack that triggered Israeli airstrikes.
The 20-point peace plan, which had been previously agreed upon by both sides, is now struggling to maintain its stability. The agreement, aimed at achieving a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, has faced fresh challenges after an increase in hostilities. Trump’s comments emphasize the serious implications of failing to uphold this fragile peace, particularly with the ongoing internal conflicts within Gaza complicating the situation further.
Internal clashes in Gaza have also created a volatile security situation in the battered enclave, with violence erupting between Hamas and rival groups. According to media outlets, the group killed at least 32 men over the weekend. After that, Trump threatened to ‘go in and kill’ Hamas. Under the peace plan, the group is to disarm and give up control of Gaza. However, they are acting as a security force in the enclave ‘for a period of time.’
After Hamas won elections in Gaza in 2006, the group became embroiled in clashes with the Palestinian Authority (PA), which governs parts of the occupied West Bank. Although the PA viewed Hamas as illegitimate, opinion polls at the time showed that the group enjoyed majority support. No elections have been held in the Palestinian territories since 2006.