Washington – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a firm deadline to Hamas, giving the group until the evening of October 5 to agree to what he called a “last chance” deal aimed at ending the ongoing Gaza conflict. The ultimatum is part of Trump’s recently unveiled 20-point plan for the region, which outlines strict conditions for post-war governance and security arrangements.
Speaking at a press conference, Trump framed the deadline as a decisive step to push for a resolution, warning that failure to comply would bring “serious consequences.” He did not specify what those consequences would be but hinted at coordinated military and economic measures with U.S. allies. “This is Hamas’s final opportunity to avoid total destruction and accept a fair deal that brings peace to the region,” Trump said.
According to details of the plan, Hamas will have no role in Gaza’s post-war administration, with governance to be handed over to a new transitional council composed of regional and international stakeholders. The proposal focuses on disarming militant groups, securing humanitarian aid corridors, and establishing a new governing structure under international supervision.
The plan also calls for significant investments in rebuilding Gaza’s infrastructure, contingent on strict security guarantees and oversight to prevent weapons smuggling and militant activity. Trump argued that his approach is “tough but realistic,” claiming it would finally bring stability to a region long plagued by recurring cycles of violence.
Hamas has not officially responded to the deadline, but early reactions from Palestinian factions suggest skepticism toward Trump’s proposal. Some view it as heavily tilted toward Israeli and U.S. interests, while others say the timeline is too short for meaningful negotiations.
The Israeli government has welcomed Trump’s hardline stance, with officials saying the plan aligns with their goal of permanently weakening Hamas’s control in Gaza. However, international diplomats have expressed concern that an ultimatum-based approach could escalate tensions rather than pave the way for a negotiated settlement.
Analysts say the October 5 deadline reflects Trump’s characteristic style of high-pressure negotiation, using public ultimatums to force quick decisions. Whether this tactic will yield diplomatic breakthroughs or deepen the crisis remains to be seen, but the clock is now ticking for Hamas to make its move.