Hamas is at a critical crossroads, facing a choice between accepting a nearly-finalized peace deal or facing “complete obliteration,” according to a stark warning from US President Donald Trump. His ultimatum comes as a comprehensive agreement to end the two-year war is now “90 per cent done.”
The deal on the table, which US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Hamas has “basically” agreed to, requires the release of all Israeli hostages. In return, Israel will withdraw its forces to the “yellow line,” its mid-August position.
The agreement also offers a political off-ramp, with Rubio confirming that Hamas has consented “in principle” to participate in planning for a post-war Gaza. This provides a path for the group to engage in a future political process.
Trump has framed the choice in the starkest of terms, coupling the “great deal for Israel” with a direct threat to Hamas’s survival. He also confirmed he has the backing of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, solidifying the international pressure.
As final logistical talks proceed, Hamas’s next move will be decisive. According to Rubio, the world will know “very quickly” if the group chooses the path of peace or risks the consequences outlined by the US President.