Trump Demands Immediate Release of 20 Hamas Hostages Amid Gaza Conflict

US President Donald Trump has issued a firm ultimatum to Hamas demanding the immediate release of all 20 hostages they are holding, emphasizing that partial releases are unacceptable. Trump stated on his Truth Social platform that if Hamas returns all hostages at once, the ongoing conflict could end rapidly. He recalled his past efforts in negotiating the release of hundreds of hostages and urged a decisive approach against Hamas, asserting that the group must be confronted and destroyed to ensure the hostages' safe return. The October 7 Hamas-led assault resulted in about 1,200 deaths and the abduction of 251 people, with around 20 hostages believed still alive in Gaza. Meanwhile, the Gaza health ministry has reported over 63,000 Palestinian deaths due to Israeli fire since the conflict began, including many civilians seeking aid. Trump's statements underscore his hardline stance and call for an immediate resolution contingent on Hamas's full cooperation.