President Donald Trump has issued stern warnings to Hamas and Iran following talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The US leader emphasized consequences for Hamas if it fails to disarm and threatened strikes on Iran should it attempt to revive its nuclear programme.
The discussions between Trump and Netanyahu focused on advancing the Gaza ceasefire, addressing Israeli concerns over Iran, and tackling Hezbollah’s presence in Lebanon. Trump praised Israel for honoring its commitments under the truce, despite ongoing near-daily strikes that have killed at least 400 people.
Trump said Hamas has a “very short period of time to disarm,” cautioning, “If they don’t disarm… there’ll be hell to pay for them.” The ceasefire’s first phase, effective October 10, calls for exchanges of Israeli captives for Palestinian detainees and an increase in aid, alongside a partial Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Hamas has yet to return one Israeli captive, while Israel has restricted aid entry and delayed opening the Rafah crossing. Trump placed the responsibility for delays squarely on Hamas, despite the group’s willingness to set aside weapons in exchange for a long-term truce.
Threats toward Iran
Trump suggested Iran may be attempting to rebuild its nuclear programme after June US air strikes damaged three Iranian facilities. “If they are, we’re going to have to knock them down… very quickly eradicate that buildup,” he said. The president hinted that potential consequences could be “more powerful than the last time.”
He declined to provide evidence for Iran’s alleged nuclear activities but stressed that the US and Israel have been “extremely victorious” against their adversaries. Trump also indicated US support for Israeli action against Iran’s missile and nuclear programmes if necessary.
US Senator Lindsey Graham echoed concerns over Iran’s ballistic missile production, warning that it could overwhelm Israel’s Iron Dome air defence system. During June’s 12-day conflict, Iran fired hundreds of missiles in retaliation for Israeli strikes that killed senior generals, nuclear scientists, and civilians
Trump has brokered ceasefires between Israel and Hamas, Israel and Iran, and Israel and Lebanon. While Netanyahu remains cautious about adversaries rebuilding forces, Trump reiterated US commitment to Israel and willingness to risk further hostilities.
Despite a recent US National Security Strategy emphasizing a shift away from the Middle East toward the Western Hemisphere, Trump’s comments signal readiness to engage militarily if necessary. Analysts warn renewed attacks on Iran could escalate into broader regional conflict.
