US President Donald Trump said he hopes to advance rapidly to the second phase of a ceasefire agreement in Gaza, while issuing a stark warning to Hamas that it would face severe consequences if it fails to disarm. His comments came during high level talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida on Monday.
Speaking at a joint press conference after the meeting, Trump said he wanted progress on the next stage of the peace plan “very quickly”, signalling a desire to build momentum after months of conflict. The US backed proposal is based on a 20 point framework that requires Hamas to lay down its weapons as a core condition for lasting peace.
Trump warned that if Hamas refuses to comply, there would be “hell to pay”, language that underscored his administration’s hard line approach toward the militant group. He said disarmament was essential to prevent future violence and to create conditions for long term stability in Gaza.
The president also defended Israel’s actions since the ceasefire plan was introduced, saying Israel had “lived up to the plan 100 percent”. His remarks came despite continued Israeli military operations in parts of Gaza, which have drawn criticism from humanitarian organisations and some international governments. Trump argued that Israel’s actions were consistent with its right to defend itself while pursuing a negotiated outcome.
Netanyahu, speaking alongside Trump, said Israel remained committed to the ceasefire framework but insisted that security concerns must remain paramount. He reiterated Israel’s demand that Hamas be removed as a military force, saying any peace process that leaves the group armed would be unacceptable.
Beyond Gaza, Trump also addressed broader regional security issues. He said the United States could support another major strike on Iran if Tehran were to resume rebuilding its ballistic missile capabilities or nuclear weapons programme. The comment suggested Washington remains prepared to take military action if it believes Iran is crossing red lines.
The warning adds to already high tensions between the US and Iran, following years of sanctions, proxy conflicts and diplomatic standoffs. Trump said preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains a top priority for his administration and for regional allies such as Israel.
Analysts say Trump’s remarks reflect an attempt to project strength while pushing for diplomatic progress. linking the Gaza ceasefire to firm demands on Hamas and renewed warnings to Iran, the US president appeared to be positioning Washington as the central power shaping security outcomes in the Middle East.
Critics, however, argue that progress toward a second phase of the Gaza agreement will be difficult without clearer guarantees on civilian protection and reconstruction. They warn that continued military action risks undermining trust in the peace process.
For now, Trump’s comments suggest a push to accelerate talks while maintaining pressure on all parties involved. Whether that approach leads to a durable ceasefire remains uncertain, but the coming weeks are likely to be decisive for both Gaza and wider regional stability.
