Trump Threatens to “Eradicate” Hamas as Ceasefire Falters; Vance Arrives Tel Aviv

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U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stark warning Monday, vowing to “eradicate” Hamas “if they’re not good,” as the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Gaza showed signs of unraveling amid renewed violence and mounting humanitarian concerns.

The president’s remarks came as Gaza’s health ministry reported 57 Palestinian deaths over the past 24 hours, including four fatalities at a UNRWA shelter. Israel, citing ceasefire violations by Hamas, resumed limited military operations on Sunday, targeting weapons caches and 6 kilometers of underground tunnels with 120 munitions.

In a bid to prevent further clashes, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) began marking the “yellow line”—a designated withdrawal boundary under the truce—with 3.5-meter poles spaced every 200 meters. The move follows complaints that unclear demarcations had led to deadly confrontations near the border.

Hamas de facto leader Khalil al-Hayya reaffirmed the group’s commitment to the ceasefire, pledging to return all hostage remains but citing rubble and inaccessible sites as reasons for delays. On Sunday, Hamas handed over the body of Tal Haimi, a 41-year-old volunteer from Nir Yitzhak kibbutz who was killed defending his community during the October 7, 2023 attacks. His widow, pregnant at the time, recalled his bravery and devotion.

The United Nations expressed deep concern over the escalating violence. “We remain concerned by all acts of violence,” said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric. “We urge all parties to honour commitments and avoid undermining humanitarian operations.” Since the conflict began, over 800 people have been killed and 2,600 injured at UNRWA facilities.

Vice President JD Vance arrived in Tel Aviv midday Monday, joining U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner, who had earlier met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Vance, traveling with his wife Usha, described the ceasefire as experiencing “fits and starts” and is expected to visit the international task force headquarters overseeing the truce. No meeting with Netanyahu is scheduled for today.

While aid trucks continue to enter Gaza, the Rafah crossing remains closed, and tensions persist. As diplomatic efforts intensify, Trump’s uncompromising rhetoric casts a long shadow over the delicate peace process—raising questions about whether momentum toward resolution can hold or if the region is poised for renewed conflict.

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