Hamas Treatment of Hostages 'Intolerable,' Trump Envoy Says

Hamas’ treatment of hostages in Gaza has been described as "intolerable" by U.S. envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff. Speaking on Thursday, Witkoff made it clear that such actions will not be accepted, warning, "It's not going to be tolerated by President Trump."

Witkoff's comments came the day after President Donald Trump met with eight former hostages in Washington. Following the meeting, Trump issued a strongly worded statement on his Truth Social platform, which he called a "last warning" to Hamas.

"We're not going to sit here, do nothing, and tolerate this kind of inhumane conditions," Witkoff said. "They lived in a terrible situation. By the way, who keeps dead bodies? Who does that? Who keeps people chained up downstairs? Who murders in front of other hostages? What's happened here is intolerable, and it's not going to be tolerated by President Trump."

Witkoff also reflected on the meeting between Trump and the former hostages, describing it as a moving experience. "We had a wonderful day with the hostages yesterday. They got a treat of a lifetime, spending time with President Trump. What was supposed to be a quick meeting turned into over an hour of heartfelt conversations, photos, and listening to their stories. The President was visibly emotional, as anyone would be."

In response to Trump's warning, Hamas has remained defiant. Spokesman Abdel-Latif al-Qanoua stated that further releases of Israeli hostages would only occur as part of negotiations for a second phase of a ceasefire agreement. He emphasized that this path was the "best way" to secure the freedom of the remaining captives.

The first ceasefire phase, which lasted 42 days, ended on Saturday. While a second phase was scheduled to begin earlier this month, progress has reportedly stalled, with only limited talks taking place. Hamas’ refusal to act without conditions further raises tensions.

Trump, never one to mince words, delivered a sharp ultimatum: "‘Shalom Hamas’ means Hello and Goodbye - You can choose. Release all of the hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you."

The President wasn’t done there. He vowed to support Israel fully, stating, "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." Addressing the people of Gaza directly, he added, "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!"

As the situation continues to unfold, the world watches closely, awaiting Hamas’ next move. For now, the message from the U.S. is crystal clear: the clock is ticking.