In a groundbreaking and previously undisclosed move, the US Holds Direct Talks with Hamas in recent weeks, focusing on the release of American hostages held in Gaza and a potential broader agreement to end the war. According to a report by Axios, citing two sources, these meetings marked the first-ever direct engagement between the US and Hamas, a group officially designated as a terrorist organization by the US in 1997.
US Holds Direct Talks with Hamas for the First Time
The meetings, held in secrecy, were attended by US presidential envoy for hostage affairs, Adam Boehler, and officials from Hamas. Notably, Israel was not informed of the specifics of these discussions. Instead, Israel reportedly learned about aspects of the negotiations through alternative channels. However, the Trump administration had previously consulted with Israel regarding the possibility of direct engagement with Hamas, the report added.
What Was Discussed in the US-Hamas Secret Meetings?
According to Axios, the primary focus of these direct talks was the release of US hostages. Discussions also extended to a potential broader agreement to secure the release of all remaining hostages held in Gaza.
Additionally, White House envoy Steve Witkoff had planned a visit to Doha this week to meet with Qatar’s Prime Minister regarding ceasefire negotiations. However, a last-minute cancellation on Tuesday night followed after US officials assessed that no progress had been made from Hamas’ side, according to a source quoted in the report.
US Holds Direct Talks with Hamas Amid Gaza Truce Uncertainty
The fragile Gaza truce has reached a critical juncture, with the first phase concluding without a clear resolution on the second phase or an extension of the agreement. Following Hamas’ rejection of Israel’s proposal to extend the ceasefire without firm commitments on war termination or troop withdrawal, Israel responded by blocking humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Hamas, in turn, accused Israel of violating the agreement, branding its decision to halt aid deliveries as “cheap blackmail” and a “war crime”.
A Closer Look at the First Phase of the Truce
The first phase of the agreement took effect on January 19 and lasted 42 days, expiring last weekend. It was structured to facilitate the exchange of 33 Israeli hostages for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. However, over the course of 39 days, Hamas released 38 hostages, while Israel freed 1,737 Palestinian prisoners and detainees, including 120 women and children.
What Comes Next? Israel and Hamas at a Standoff
Israel has expressed interest in extending the first phase of the deal for another 42 days. However, Hamas remains firm in its demand for negotiations on a permanent ceasefire and a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza as conditions for moving forward with the second phase of the agreement. The ongoing deadlock raises concerns over whether future ceasefire efforts will be successful or if the conflict will escalate further.
US Holds Direct Talks with Hamas: A New Diplomatic Strategy?
This unprecedented engagement between the US and Hamas signals a potential shift in diplomatic strategy. While the US has long refrained from direct communication with Hamas due to its terrorist designation, the pressing hostage crisis and ongoing conflict may have forced a reevaluation of this stance. Whether these talks will lead to a lasting resolution remains uncertain.
