US Did Not Tell Israel About Talks with Hamas
The United States has initiated direct negotiations with Hamas to secure the release of American hostages held in the Gaza Strip. This development marks a significant shift in U.S. policy, as Hamas has been designated a terrorist organization by the U.S. since 1997. However, contrary to earlier reports, it seems that the US did not tell Israel about it beforehand, rather they found out through backchannels.
The negotiations are being led by Adam Boehler, the U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs, and are taking place in Doha, Qatar. Boehler went to college with Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. These talks are the first known direct engagement between the U.S. and Hamas. The discussions aim to secure the release of the remaining American hostages, including 21-year-old Edan Alexander, who has been held captive since October 2023. The remains of four other U.S. citizens are also reportedly in Hamas’s possession.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the ongoing negotiations, stating that they are a “good faith effort” to ensure the safe return of American citizens. She emphasized that Israel has been consulted throughout the process, underscoring the delicate nature of these discussions.
Hamas has acknowledged the communications, with an official indicating that talks have occurred through various American channels, including a U.S. envoy. The group maintains that any release of hostages must be part of a negotiated agreement, reflecting the complexities inherent in such high-stakes diplomacy.
Israel, which traditionally engages with Hamas indirectly through intermediaries like Qatar and Egypt, has expressed its position to the U.S. regarding these direct talks. The Israeli government has recently imposed a new aid blockade on Gaza, aiming to pressure Hamas into accepting a revised ceasefire agreement and to secure the return of Israeli hostages. This blockade has raised concerns among Palestinians and international observers about potential humanitarian implications.
President Trump has issued a stern ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of all hostages and the return of the bodies of those killed. Utilizing his platform on Truth Social, the President warned of severe consequences if these demands are not met, stating, “I am sending Israel everything it needs to finish the job; not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say.” He further addressed the people of Gaza, suggesting that a “beautiful future” awaits them, contingent upon the release of the hostages.
The international community has shown a mixed response to these developments. The United Nations and several Arab states have condemned the Israeli blockade, urging the resumption of humanitarian aid to Gaza. The European Union has also called for the unhindered delivery of assistance, cautioning against the use of aid as a political tool.
The negotiations include discussions about a broader ceasefire agreement. The proposed deal would involve a long-term truce in exchange for the release of hostages. However, reaching such an agreement remains challenging, with both sides holding firm to their respective demands.