The United States has increased pressure on Hamas to disarm in the next phase of a Gaza Strip ceasefire as US President Donald Trump pushes to cement an end to the devastating conflict.

In a visit to Israel, US Vice President JD Vance said the ceasefire plan was going better than expected but warned the Palestinian militant group it would be obliterated if it did not co-operate, echoing a Trump threat earlier in the day of “fast, furious and brutal force”.

Israel and Hamas have accused each other of repeated breaches of the truce since it was signed eight days ago, with flashes of violence and recriminations over the pace of returning hostage bodies, bringing in aid and opening borders.

Mr Trump has pointed to the backing of other nations in his latest threat to Hamas on Truth Social, s

See Full Page