U.S. and Hamas Hold Direct Talks on Hostages in Gaza, Officials Say

Recent talks between U.S. and Hamas officials in Qatar have focused on securing the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip, breaking with the long-standing American policy of not engaging directly with designated terrorist groups. President Trump’s nominee for special envoy for hostage affairs, Adam Boehler, reportedly participated in the discussions this week. The talks centered on efforts to secure the release of Edan Alexander, the only Israeli American hostage believed to be alive, and the bodies of four other Israeli Americans kidnapped during the Hamas-led attack on Israel in October 2023.

Karoline Leavitt, President Trump’s press secretary, did not deny the direct talks with Hamas and emphasized that Mr. Boehler had the authority to engage in negotiations with any party.

The secret talks, initially reported by Axios, mark a significant departure from previous negotiations involving the U.S. and Hamas. American officials have traditionally relied on intermediaries, such as Qatar and Egypt, to communicate with Hamas due to its terrorist designation by the State Department.

The outcome of the discussions remains unclear, but efforts have been made to extend the current truce between Israel and Hamas and secure the release of remaining hostages in Gaza. Approximately 24 living captives and the bodies of at least 35 individuals are believed to still be held in Gaza. President Trump has issued a stern warning to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of all hostages and the return of the deceased individuals.

Ms. Leavitt confirmed that Israel was consulted on the matter, emphasizing the importance of American lives at stake in the negotiations.

Despite Israel’s lack of direct knowledge of the talks from the U.S., General Nitzan Alon informed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the negotiations. The Israeli prime minister’s office stated its position on direct conversations with Hamas during talks with the U.S. Hamas has not yet responded to requests for comment.

Following the Hamas-led attack that sparked the conflict in Gaza, mediators have played a crucial role in brokering agreements to halt the fighting and secure the release of hostages. Israel and Hamas are currently at an impasse over terms for a comprehensive truce to end the war and free all remaining living hostages.

President Trump announced his intention to nominate Adam Boehler as a special envoy for hostage affairs, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to bringing back hostages from Gaza.

U.S. officials remain concerned about the fate of American Israeli captives held by Hamas and are in touch with their families. With ongoing uncertainties surrounding the Israel-Hamas cease-fire, the release of hostages, including Edan Alexander, remains uncertain.