Tafsir of Yunus 10:53

{And they ask you to inform them: "Is it true?"} They are asking you for information, saying: "Is it true?" This is an interrogative used for the purpose of denial and mockery.

Al-A‘mash read it as: “A-al-ḥaqqu huwa?” (Is it the truth?), which is more emphatic in its mockery, as it implies that it is falsehood. This is because the definite article (al-) denotes the genus; it is as if they said: "Is it the truth, not falsehood?" or "Is it that which you have named 'the truth'?" The pronoun refers to the promised punishment.

{Say: "Yes!"} ‘Ī (Yes) is equivalent to na‘am (yes), but specifically used in the context of an oath, just as hal is equivalent to qad in the context of an interrogation. I have heard them say in affirmation: ‘ī-wa, connecting it to the waw of the oath, and they do not utter it alone.

{And you will not be able to escape} Meaning: You will not be able to evade the punishment; it will inevitably overtake you.

{And if every soul that has wronged had all that is on earth, it would offer it as ransom. And they will conceal regret when they see the punishment; and it will be judged between them in justice, and they will not be wronged. Indeed, to Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and the earth. Indeed, the promise of Allah is true, but most of them do not know. He gives life and causes death, and to Him you will be returned.}