Trump Backs Netanyahu: “Hostages Will Only Return When Hamas Is Destroyed”
Trump declares U.S. backing for Israel’s war effort, urging Netanyahu to finish Hamas’s destruction as the only path to free the hostages.
U.S. President Donald Trump voiced his strongest support yet for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, declaring that the release of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza depends entirely on the destruction of Hamas.
His statement comes amid growing anti-government protests across Israel demanding a ceasefire.
In a forceful post on his social media platform, Trump wrote: “We will only see the return of the remaining hostages when Hamas is confronted and destroyed!!! The sooner this takes place, the better the chances of success.”
The president reminded his followers of his past achievements: “I was the one who negotiated and got hundreds of hostages freed and released into Israel (and America!). I was the one who ended six wars in just six months. I was the one who obliterated Iran’s nuclear facilities.”
He ended with a blunt challenge to Israel’s leadership and its critics: “Play to win, or don’t play at all!”
Clear American Backing
Trump’s declaration stands in stark contrast to the cautious approach of many Western governments, who continue to pressure Jerusalem toward restraint and explore sanctions. While European leaders call for a halt to the fighting, the American president has given Netanyahu a clear green light to continue the war until Hamas is completely dismantled.
For Israel, still reeling from months of conflict and hostage negotiations, Trump’s words deliver a powerful message of support from Washington: victory against Hamas is not only legitimate but essential for the return of the captives.