Protests Erupt as Trump Issues Final Warning to Hamas

Protests erupted over the weekend in various cities as tensions escalated in the ongoing Gaza conflict. The demonstrations coincided with a statement from United States President Donald Trump, who declared he had issued his “last warning” to Hamas regarding a potential deal to release hostages in Gaza. This announcement followed Hamas’s assertion that it was prepared to “immediately sit at the negotiating table” to discuss a ceasefire agreement.

In its statement, Hamas expressed willingness to engage in negotiations in exchange for “a clear declaration of the end of the war,” a full withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, and the establishment of a committee of independent Palestinians to oversee the region. The militant group emphasized its readiness to collaborate on efforts aimed at ending what it described as aggression against its people.

Trump’s warning came via social media, where he noted that “the Israelis have accepted my terms,” urging Hamas to do the same. He cautioned Hamas about the consequences of not complying, framing his message as a final ultimatum. The conflict has seen militants seize 251 hostages during the October 7, 2023Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s announcement that the military is intensifying its assault on key urban areas of the Gaza Strip.

Demonstrations in Israel also reflected public concern, as protesters called on the government to reconsider its offensive in Gaza City, where hostages are believed to be located. According to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures, the initial attack on October 7 resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, primarily civilians. In response, Israel’s retaliatory operations have led to the deaths of at least 64,368 Palestinians, most of whom are also civilians, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry, a source deemed reliable by the United Nations.

In a show of solidarity for the Palestinian cause, tens of thousands of individuals gathered in Brussels to voice their support. The police estimate that around 70,000 took part in the demonstration, while organizers claim the number reached 120,000. This rally followed remarks from Belgium’s Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot, who indicated that the European Union’s credibility was “collapsing” due to its inaction on the conflict.

Belgium has announced plans to recognize the State of Palestine during this month’s UN General Assembly and has instituted new sanctions against Israel. The EU, however, continues to grapple with internal divisions, hindering unified action against Israel amid the ongoing crisis.