US President Donald Trump called for the hostages to be released, otherwise "no member of Hamas will be safe." He posted this on the social network The Truth Social.

"Release all hostages now, not later <…>. Otherwise, it's all over for you. You have a bright future ahead of you, but not if you continue to hold hostages. Make a smart decision – release them now, or pay the price," the US president wrote.

The threatening post appeared after Trump met with six hostages who were freed under the first phase of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The White House said the United States was in direct talks with Hamas to free the hostages, including Americans, Axios reported .

Trump stressed that his intentions are directed towards the Hamas leadership and that the people of Gaza have a bright future. "This is your final warning. Now is the time for the leadership to leave Gaza while you still have a chance," Donald Trump added.

What else is known

The 42-day negotiations expired on March 1. The US administration began direct talks with Hamas after the two sides failed to reach a peace agreement.

Hamas currently holds 59 hostages, five of whom are US citizens.

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Cover: Photo — Win McNamee/Pool/Reuters