Donald Trump, the architect of the fragile Gaza truce, has issued a public warning to Hamas that he is “watching very closely” to ensure the return of Israeli hostage remains. As Trump pressures Hamas, his ally, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is asserting control over the peace force.
Trump’s warning, posted on Truth Social, came as the exchange of remains has faltered. Hamas has returned only 18 bodies, citing recovery difficulties, while Israel has returned 195.
As this unfolds, Netanyahu is focused on the future, declaring, “Israel will determine which forces are unacceptable to us” for the international force. He has already used this to signal a block on Turkey.
The US is backing Netanyahu. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, visiting Israel, said the force must be “comfortable” for Israel and that Hamas must be excluded from power.
The truce is also being tested by an Israeli strike on the Nuseirat camp, which Hamas called a “clear violation.”
