US could forcibly disarm Hamas - Trump
Photo: Donald Trump, President of the United States (Getty Images)
US President Donald Trump has called on Hamas to lay down its arms as part of his proposed peace plan, warning of the possibility of forced disarmament and stressing the need for the return of hostages and the bodies of those killed, according to a publication by Ukrinform.
During his meeting with Argentine President Javier Milei at the White House, Trump urged Hamas to voluntarily disarm as part of his peace plan and warned that the group could face forced disarmament if it refused to comply.
Responding to journalists’ questions about talks with Hamas representatives, he said the United States would have to disarm the group by force if it failed to lay down its weapons. Trump also stated that he had discussed the issue of disarmament directly with Hamas and that its representatives had assured him of their intention to do so. He emphasized that the disarmament would either happen voluntarily or be enforced, but did not specify the methods, saying only that it should take place quickly and within a reasonable timeframe.
In addition to disarmament, the president stressed the need for Hamas to return the hostages it continues to hold, as well as the bodies of those killed in captivity.
Trump added that he intends to focus on Gaza’s reconstruction but has not yet made a final decision on establishing two states in the region, saying that his current priority is rebuilding and securing the return of all 20 Israeli hostages.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to meet with Trump in Washington on October 17 to discuss long-range weapons deliveries, strengthening air defense systems, sanctions pressure on Russia, and energy security.
Trump also announced plans to impose new trade tariffs on Spain for failing to increase defense spending to 5%, saying Madrid’s stance was unacceptable for NATO and showed a lack of respect.
