Trump's bold move: Direct talks with Hamas for hostage release
American officials have engaged in direct talks with Hamas to secure the release of American hostages and reach an agreement to end the conflict in the Gaza Strip, reported the portal "Axios," citing two sources.
The talks are being conducted by Adam Boehler, President Donald Trump's envoy for American hostages held in the Gaza Strip. Boehler met with Hamas representatives in Doha, the capital of Qatar.
Axios highlighted that this situation is unprecedented, as the United States has never previously engaged in direct negotiations with Hamas, which Washington has officially designated as a terrorist organization since 1997.
The USA consulted with Israel on the possibility of such talks, but details of the negotiations reached Jerusalem through other channels. Boehler discussed not only the release of American citizens but also the freedom of all hostages held in the Gaza Strip and the establishment of a long-term truce.
Hostage situation and truce
The bodies of four American citizens, who were kidnapped and killed in captivity, remain in the Gaza Strip. Additionally, there is one American held prisoner who is most likely alive. In total, there are 59 hostages held in the Gaza Strip, 22 of whom are considered to be alive.
The first phase of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas expired on Saturday. Although fighting has not resumed, the parties have yet to agree on extending the truce. Israel proposed extending the first phase in exchange for the release of more hostages, which Hamas rejected, thereby blocking transports to the Gaza Strip.
The role of the USA in negotiations
The United States, Egypt, and Qatar played a mediating role in the truce negotiations. The decision to engage in direct talks with Hamas while excluding Israel reflects a shift in the Trump administration’s approach to conflict resolution, setting it apart from the policies of his predecessor, Joe Biden. Axios notes that during the 2024 election campaign, Trump had pledged to bring a swift end to the conflict in the Gaza Strip.
The new president presented a vision for Gaza's post-war future, which includes the resettlement of Palestinians. He also declared that he would respect any decision made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, including a return to hostilities. Trump's Middle East advisor, Steve Witkoff, is working towards extending the first phase of the agreement and implementing the second part.
