WASHINGTON DC: U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a “last warning” to Hamas, urging the militant group to accept a new hostage deal as Israel’s military intensifies its offensive in Gaza.

The ultimatum, delivered via social media, follows reports that a new U.S. proposal is being “seriously considered” by the Israeli government.

The plan reportedly proposes a truce in exchange for the release of all remaining hostages on the first day, along with the return of thousands of Palestinian prisoners.

It would also require a halt to Israel’s Gaza City offensive.

Hamas confirmed it had received “ideas” from the American side and stated its readiness to negotiate, though it maintains its conditions for an end to the war and a full Israeli withdrawal from the territory.

The diplomatic push comes as the Israeli military bombs residential towers in Gaza City, accusing Hamas of using civilians as “human shields.”

The conflict, which began with Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack, has resulted in a devastating human toll.

The initial attack killed 1,219 people, mostly civilians, while Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed at least 64,368 Palestinians, according to health officials in Hamas-run Gaza.

Of the 251 hostages seized, 47 are believed to remain, with 25 of them confirmed dead by the Israeli military.

The uncertainty over the hostages’ fate continues to fuel protests in Israel, with thousands demanding their government prioritize their release.