Trump Says the ‘People of Gaza’ Will Be ‘Dead’ If Hostages Aren’t Released

President Trump on Wednesday issued a threat against the civilian population of Gaza, saying the “people of Gaza” would be “dead” if the Israeli hostages weren’t released immediately.

“Also, to the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD! Make a SMART decision. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW, OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER!” the president said at the end of a statement released on social media.

Addressing Hamas in the statement, Trump said, “Shalom Hamas’ means Hello and Goodbye – You can choose. Release all of the Hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you.”

"'Shalom Hamas' means Hello and Goodbye - You can choose. Release all of the Hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you. Only sick and twisted people keep bodies, and you are sick and twisted! I am… pic.twitter.com/88EjVAyWAe

— President Donald J. Trump (@POTUS) March 5, 2025