President Donald Trump on Friday criticized Hamas over the collapse of ceasefire negotiations in Gaza, claiming the militant group had no intention of reaching an agreement.
His remarks followed the withdrawal of both Israeli and U.S. negotiators from indirect talks mediated in Qatar.
“It was too bad. Hamas didn’t really want to make a deal. I think they want to die,” Trump told reporters, in a sharp rebuke of the group’s role in the stalled peace efforts.
The ceasefire talks, aimed at ending nearly two years of conflict and securing the release of Israeli hostages, had seen Qatari mediators shuttling between both parties for over two weeks. Despite the breakdown, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his administration remained open to reaching an agreement, even after recalling its team from Doha.
Trump doubled down on his criticism of Hamas, stating, “Now we’re down to the final hostages, and they know what happens after you get the final hostages,” suggesting Israel may escalate military operations once hostages are no longer a factor.
The U.S. president also dismissed recent international moves in support of Palestinian statehood, particularly targeting French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement to recognize a Palestinian state.
“He’s a very good guy, I like him, but that statement doesn’t carry weight,” Trump said, signaling Washington’s continued reluctance toward unilateral recognition of Palestinian sovereignty without a broader peace agreement.
What you should know
President Trump has pointed fingers at Hamas for obstructing ceasefire negotiations with Israel, claiming the group had no genuine intention of striking a deal.
With indirect talks in Qatar falling apart, Trump warned that once the remaining Israeli hostages are released, Israel is likely to escalate its military operations. His remarks signal a shift toward tougher rhetoric and possibly increased support for Israeli action.
Trump also dismissed international efforts such as France’s recognition of a Palestinian state, reinforcing the U.S. stance that Palestinian sovereignty should not be acknowledged without a comprehensive peace agreement in place.
