US Secretary of State Rubio threatens Hamas with a cross on his forehead: 'They had better take this seriously'

12punto FOREIGN NEWS

Secretary of State Rubio supported US President Donald Trump's statements regarding Hamas, stating that the organization must take these warnings seriously. Reiterating Trump's threats against Hamas, Rubio emphasized during the broadcast, in which he appeared with a cross on his forehead, that the problems regarding the situation of the captives have exhausted Trump's patience and that he is determined 'on this matter'.

The first phase of the ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Hamas on January 19 was completed on March 1. While the mutual hostage exchange was nearing its end, negotiations between the two sides regarding the status of the remaining hostages were expected. However, no negotiations have been held between Hamas and Israel regarding the continuation of the ceasefire.

Trump once again threatened Hamas via his social media account, stating that the hostages must be released immediately, otherwise 'all hell will break loose'. While supporting this statement by Trump, Rubio announced that Hamas would be targeted if the captives were not released.

Israeli hostage Omer Shem Tov kissed a Hamas fighter on the forehead while being released. Tov also waved and blew kisses to the crowd attending the ceremony organized by Hamas for the hostage exchange

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL

The Secretary of State announced during the broadcast, in which he appeared with a cross on his forehead, that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could decide to launch an attack if Hamas does not release the hostages. Recalling Trump's promise of 'full support' to Israel, Rubio noted that they would support their 'allies' under any circumstances.

Appearing live on Fox News, Rubio underscored that Trump is serious about Hamas. Alleging that Hamas mistreats the captives, Rubio stated that 'if Trump says he is going to do something, he absolutely will'. According to Rubio, the released Israeli hostages were in poor physical condition.

Rubio emphasized that Hamas is playing games regarding the captives and that this situation has further angered Trump, stating the following:

'He is tired of watching these videos every weekend where emaciated captives are released, bodies are handed over, and sometimes there are the wrong bodies, 5 here, 3 there, and games are being played, and he has lost his patience on this matter. (Trump) If he says he is going to do something, he will do it. That is why they had better take this seriously.'

MESSAGE FROM TRUMP TO HAMAS

Since the early days of his presidency, Trump has been calling on Hamas to release the captives. Claiming that the captives in Hamas's hands are being mistreated, the US President added that he would 'view with understanding' a possible 'attack' decision by Israel.

Making a statement via Truth Social, Trump reiterated his demand for the 'immediate release' of the hostages and used the following expressions:

''Shalom Hamas, to say hello or goodbye. The choice is yours. Release all the hostages now, not later, or it is all over for you. I am sending everything Israel needs to finish the job. If you do not do what I say, not a single Hamas member will be safe. This is your final warning. It is time for the administration to leave Gaza. While you still have a chance... On the other hand, a beautiful future awaits the people of Gaza, but not as long as you hold the captives. Make a smart choice. Release the captives now or see hell later.''

Trump's social media message to Hamas

News Source: 12punto