Trump admin. engages in secret talks with Hamas: Reuters
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The discussions reportedly centered on the release of US captives but have also included broader talks about freeing all remaining captives and establishing a lasting ceasefire.
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A Hamas fighter takes position ahead of the planned release of Israeli captives set to be handed over to the Red Cross in Nuseirat, Gaza Strip, Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025 (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)
The Trump administration has been conducting confidential discussions with Hamas to secure the release of American captives held in the region, Reuters reported on Wednesday.
A source familiar with the talks confirmed to Reuters that US Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Adam Boehler has been leading these negotiations in Doha, Qatar, in recent weeks.
The discussions reportedly centered on the release of US captives but have also included broader talks about freeing all remaining captives and establishing a lasting ceasefire.
The Israeli embassy in Washington has not yet commented on the matter, and both Boehler's office and the White House have declined to provide further details.
In a related development, US President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is set to return to the region soon to work on extending the current Gaza ceasefire or advancing to the next phase of the agreement, according to a State Department spokesperson.
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Witkoff recently proposed extending the ceasefire for 1.5 months, covering both Ramadan and Passover, in exchange for a phased release of Israeli captives.
Under the proposed framework, half of the hostages—both living and deceased—were to be released on the first day, with negotiations for a permanent ceasefire determining the release of the remaining captives.
Hamas rejected the terms, citing concerns over long-term guarantees, which led to "Israel" suspending aid deliveries to Gaza.
The aid blockade has triggered widespread condemnation from international organizations and human rights groups.
UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher criticized "Israel's" move, arguing that the restriction of aid violates international law.
Several aid agencies and governments have also accused "Israel" of weaponizing humanitarian assistance by using starvation as a tool of war against Palestinians.
