US President Donald Trump said on Monday that Hamas would face destruction if it violates the ceasefire with Israel. He spoke at the White House beside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. “We made a deal with Hamas that they’re going to be very good, they’re going to behave, they’re going to be nice. And if they’re not, we’re going to go and eradicate them, if we have to. They’ll be eradicated, and they know that.”
Trump framed the warning as part of the deal he helped arrange. He said the agreement should be respected and that strong consequences would follow any breach.
Ceasefire Strained After Weekend Violence
The ceasefire, put in place nearly two weeks ago, came under pressure after outbreaks of violence over the weekend. Israel accused Hamas of actions that violate parts of the agreement, and tensions rose as both sides traded accusations. The new incidents increased fears that the truce could collapse.
US Envoys and Vice‑President Travel to Israel
In response, senior US officials rushed to the region. Vice‑President JD Vance left Washington for a multi‑day visit to Israel. He was joined by two senior envoys who went to consult Israeli leaders and push for the ceasefire to hold.
Trump’s special envoy and adviser also met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. These visits aimed to calm the situation, press for adherence to the deal, and work on urgent issues like the return of hostages and humanitarian access.
Disputes Over Hostages and Security
A key sticking point is the handling of hostages and the return of remains. Israel says Hamas has delayed returning bodies and continues hostile actions. Hamas denies some accusations but faces pressure to cooperate fully with the agreement’s terms. The disagreement over these matters has been central to the recent flareups.
US Military Role and International Stabilisation Force
Trump insisted the United States will not send American troops into Gaza. Instead, he said dozens of countries have agreed to contribute to an international stabilisation force to help secure the territory. He also noted that Israel could act quickly if asked: “In addition, you have Israel would go in in two minutes, if I asked them to go in,” he said. “But right now, we haven’t said that. We’re going to give it a little chance, and hopefully there will be a little less violence.”
This approach aims to combine diplomatic pressure with an international presence to keep order without direct US ground intervention.
Trump Says Hamas Is Weakened
Trump described Hamas as weaker and more isolated than before. He said the group lacks broad regional backing and must follow the ceasefire or face severe consequences. “They don’t have the backing of really anybody anymore. They have to be good, and if they’re not good, they’ll be eradicated,” he added.
Importance of the Visits
The arrival of US delegations underscores the urgency of the moment. Diplomats will focus on practical steps to enforce the truce, speed humanitarian aid, and secure the release and return of hostages or remains. Their presence is also meant to reassure Israel and other partners that the United States is actively engaged.
Bottom Line
The truce remains fragile. Trump combined a tough public warning with diplomatic moves to keep the agreement alive. US envoys and the vice‑presidential visit aim to tamp down violence and resolve the main disputes that threaten the ceasefire.
