US President Donald Trump asked Jordanian King Abdullah to ensure Hamas understands the “severity of the situation” if captives are not released by Saturday’s deadline, the White House has said, Reuters reports.

“The president reiterated that Hamas must release all hostages, including all Americans, by Saturday, and asked for the King’s assistance in ensuring that Hamas, as well as the leaders of the region, understand the severity of the situation,” the White House said in a statement.

The two leaders held “a warm and productive working meeting at the White House” on Tuesday, it said.

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