Trump envoy leads unprecedented talks with Hamas in Qatar
American officials have been involved in direct discussions with Hamas, aimed at securing the release of American hostages and achieving an agreement to end the conflict in the Gaza Strip, as reported by the portal "Axios," which cites two sources.
The discussions are being led 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 is an unprecedented situation, as the United States has never engaged in direct negotiations with Hamas, an organization officially designated as a terrorist group by Washington since 1997.
The USA consulted Israel on the possibility of these talks; however, details of the negotiations reached Jerusalem through other channels. Boehler discussed not only the release of American citizens but also the release 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, kidnapped and killed in captivity, remain in the Gaza Strip. There is also 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 not agreed on extending the truce. Israel proposed extending the first phase in exchange for the release of more hostages, which Hamas rejected, consequently blocking transports to the Gaza Strip.
The role of the USA in negotiations
The United States, Egypt, and Qatar mediated the truce negotiations. The decision to engage in direct talks with Hamas without involving 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 conflict. Trump's Middle East advisor, Steve Witkoff, is working towards extending the first phase of the agreement and implementing the second part.
