MOHAMMAD ZIYAUDDIN
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WASHINGTON: The Trump administration has been holding secret negotiations with Hamas regarding the release of U.S. hostages in Gaza, a source familiar with the discussions told Reuters.
According to the report, U.S. special envoy for hostage affairs, Adam Boehler, has been directly engaging with Hamas leaders in Doha over the past few weeks. This marks a significant departure from the long-standing U.S. policy of avoiding direct talks with the militant group, which has been designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department since 1997.
Key Details of the Secret Talks
The negotiations have focused on securing the release of American hostages still held in Gaza.
Discussions have also touched on a potential broader deal to free all remaining hostages and explore a long-term truce.
The Israeli embassy in Washington, Boehler’s office, and the White House have all declined to comment on the matter.
A State Department spokesperson confirmed that Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is set to return to the region in the coming days. His mission will be to either extend the current ceasefire or transition to the next phase of the peace deal.
Why This Is a Major Policy Shift
Until recently, the United States had refused direct engagement with Hamas due to its designation as a terrorist organization. These talks signal a potential shift in U.S. strategy as the Trump administration seeks a resolution to the ongoing hostage crisis.
While details of a possible agreement remain unclear, this development underscores the high-stakes diplomacy unfolding in the Middle East.
With negotiations continuing, all eyes will be on how the U.S., Israel, and Hamas navigate this complex situation in the coming weeks.
1. Why is the U.S. negotiating directly with Hamas?
- The Trump administration is seeking the release of American hostages held in Gaza and exploring options for a broader truce.
2. Has the U.S. ever negotiated with Hamas before?
- The U.S. has historically avoided direct talks with Hamas, as the group has been designated a foreign terrorist organization since 1997.
3. What is the current status of the Gaza ceasefire?
- A temporary ceasefire is in place, and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is working on extending it or moving to the next phase of negotiations.
4. Has Israel responded to these talks?
- The Israeli embassy in Washington has not commented on the negotiations so far.
5. What are the next steps in the U.S.-Hamas talks?
- Discussions are expected to continue in Doha, with a focus on securing hostage releases and potential long-term peace measures.
