U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday demanded that Hamas immediately release all hostages it continues to hold in Gaza, declaring that the “time for partial releases is over.”
Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Trump pressed world leaders to unite on the issue, insisting that nothing short of full release would be acceptable.
“Just release the hostages now,” Trump said in a forceful appeal. “Instead of giving in to Hamas as ransom demands, those who want peace should be united with one message: release the hostages now.”
The president also took aim at several European nations, including U.S. allies, for recognizing a Palestinian state.
He argued that such moves amounted to rewarding Hamas for its October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, which triggered the ongoing conflict. “As if to encourage continued conflict, some in this body seek to unilaterally recognize a Palestinian state,” Trump said.
