U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran and Hamas following a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. During a press conference on December 29, Trump declared that if Hamas does not disarm in Gaza, there will be “hell to pay” for the militant group, emphasizing a united front with Netanyahu.
Trump threatened to “eradicate” any Iranian efforts to rebuild its nuclear program or ballistic missile arsenal in the wake of prior U.S. and Israeli strikes. He expressed confidence that Israel had fulfilled its obligations under the current ceasefire and placed the responsibility for disarmament squarely on Hamas. “They have to disarm in a fairly short period of time,” Trump insisted.
In response, Hamas’s armed wing reaffirmed its stance against surrendering its weapons. Ali Shamkhani, a senior advisor to Iran’s supreme leader, warned that any aggression would prompt an “immediate harsh response,” reiterating Iran’s missile capabilities are non-negotiable.
Netanyahu characterized his meeting with Trump as “very productive,” announcing that Israel would bestow its highest civilian honor upon the U.S. leader — a first for a non-Israeli citizen. Trump, who refers to himself as the “president of peace,” is looking to advance plans for a Palestinian technocratic government and the establishment of an international stabilization force.
Despite some concerns among White House officials regarding Netanyahu’s pace in implementing the Gaza truce, Trump minimized reports of tension, stating he had “very little difference” with the Israeli premier. He emphasized the need for attention on Israel’s apprehensions about Iran’s activities.
The discussions also touched on other regional issues, such as the situation in Syria and the presence of Hezbollah in Lebanon. Trump expressed hope that Netanyahu could establish a constructive relationship with Syria’s new president, despite ongoing Israeli military actions.
As Trump’s administration aims to move forward with plans regarding Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas remains a significant sticking point, with the group asserting that it will not relinquish its arms as long as Israel occupies Palestinian territories.
The U.S. administration is anticipated to make announcements soon regarding an interim government and an international force in Gaza, as both nations look to stabilize the region following a tumultuous year marked by conflict.
