In a high-stakes diplomatic move, US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to the Palestinian militant group Hamas, urging it to accept a newly proposed ceasefire deal or face consequences he described as “worse.” The warning came amid a flurry of diplomatic activity intended to halt the ongoing war in Gaza, which has left tens of thousands dead and the enclave in ruins.

Trump delivered his message on July 2 via his Truth Social platform, emphasizing that Israel has already agreed to the core terms of a proposed 60-day ceasefire. He described recent US-Israeli talks as “long and productive,” crediting regional powers Egypt and Qatar for helping broker the plan.

“Israel has agreed to the necessary conditions to finalize the 60 Day CEASEFIRE, during which time we will work with all parties to end the War,” Trump posted. “This is Hamas’ last chance. If they refuse, they will face something much worse.”

While Trump did not elaborate on what “worse” entails, his administration has previously signaled an openness to expanding support for Israeli military operations if ceasefire talks fail. The rhetoric underscores Washington’s strategy of using both diplomatic pressure and implicit military threats to force Hamas into compliance.

The specifics of the proposed ceasefire are still largely under wraps, but reports suggest it would involve a temporary cessation of hostilities in Gaza in exchange for the release of some or all Israeli hostages held by Hamas. In return, humanitarian aid corridors would be expanded to address the dire needs of Gaza’s civilians, many of........

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