President Trump vows the war will end if Hamas releases 20 living hostages, but families insist peace is impossible until all 48 — living and murdered — are returned.
US President Donald Trump issued a blunt message to Hamas on Wednesday, demanding the immediate release of all 20 surviving Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Writing on Truth Social, he promised a swift end to the war if Hamas complies:
“Tell Hamas to immediately give back all 20 Hostages (Not two or five or seven!), and things will change rapidly. It will end!”
But the Hostages Families Forum responded with a powerful plea, reminding Trump of his repeated promises:
“This nightmare cannot end until all 48 hostages are accounted for — both the living and those murdered in captivity. Mr. President, uphold your promise. Bring them all home. The living and the deceased have all run out of time. This is your moment to fulfill your most sacred promise.”
Echoing the demand, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy called for the hostages’ unconditional release after meeting relatives in London.
“Hamas must immediately release all hostages. We will continue working with international partners for an immediate ceasefire and a lasting peace,” Lammy posted on X.
The emotional appeals underline the widening international pressure on Hamas as families mark over 700 days of captivity and loss.
