President Donald Trump expressed skepticism Friday about a deal to release remaining Israeli hostages held by Hamas, stating bluntly, “I think they want to die.”
Trump, speaking after U.S. and Israeli negotiators withdrew from Doha talks, signaled support for Israel to escalate its campaign against Hamas. He claimed Hamas’s latest counterproposal made a deal “impossible,” while the U.S. and Israel explore alternative strategies.
Trump said the U.S. “got a lot of hostages out,” but believes Hamas won’t trade the final captives because “they’d lose their leverage.” He acknowledged that hostages may not be freed without further military action.
Meanwhile, Egypt and Qatar insist progress was made and say talks may resume, though mediators await updated instructions. Families of hostages were told the negotiation pause is a “muscle flex,” not a full withdrawal.
