Trump: Israel Must Decide Gaza’s Next Steps Amid Stalled Talks

President links Hamas’s ‘hardening’ to decision on hostages

U.S. President **Donald Trump** stated that Israel now faces the critical task of determining its future actions in Gaza following Hamas’s withdrawal from ceasefire negotiations.

Hostage Release Imperative

Speaking at his Turnberry golf resort in Scotland, **Trump** emphasized the paramount importance of freeing hostages held by the militant group. He noted a recent shift, describing Hamas as having suddenly “hardened” its stance on the issue.

“They don’t want to give them back, and so Israel is going to have to make a decision.”

—Donald Trump, U.S. President

The president’s remarks came as he met with European Commission President **Ursula von der Leyen**. The comments underscore the ongoing complexities of the conflict and the stalled efforts to secure a peace agreement and hostage release.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with over 2 million people in need of assistance, according to the United Nations. The conflict has seen significant civilian casualties on both sides.