Hamas announced that it engaged in direct discussions with a US envoy regarding captives
Hamas has announced that Palestinian negotiators have engaged in multiple discussions with former United States President Donald Trump.
Taher Al-Nono, serving as the political adviser to the leader of the Palestinian resistance faction, announced that discussions took place over the last week in Doha, the capital city of Qatar.
Al-Nono has announced that numerous discussions have been held in Doha, concentrating on the release of a prisoner holding dual nationality.
The American delegation has been notified that there is no objection to the release of prisoners within the context of the ongoing discussions.
Edan Alexander, a former soldier of the Israeli Defense Forces, is reportedly the last remaining American-Israeli hostage currently detained by Hamas in Gaza.
On October 7, 2023, during an unprecedented operation targeting the occupied territories, Hamas reportedly captured approximately 250 individuals.
Nono stated that discussions between Hamas and Washington have also focused on ensuring the implementation of the phased ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which is intended to bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
He stated that actions have been taken with a positive and adaptable approach to benefit the Palestinian people’s interests.
For the first time, Washington has engaged in direct dialogue with Hamas, an entity it officially labeled as a “terrorist organization” in 1997.
On Friday, reports emerged indicating that recent developments regarding direct negotiations have incited significant outrage in Tel Aviv. This unfolding situation prompted a tense phone conversation between Ron Dermer, the chief aide to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Boehler.
Former President Donald Trump has purportedly expressed support for the discussions with Tel Aviv, emphasizing optimism as they center on the liberation of “Israeli hostages.”
In an appearance on NBC News’ Meet the Press, Boehler described the discussions with Hamas as notably “helpful.”
He did not dismiss the possibility of future engagements with the Palestinian organization.
Under a ceasefire agreement mediated by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, Hamas has freed 33 Israeli hostages and five Thai nationals in exchange for the liberation of approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.
Israeli officials have reported that less than half of the 59 captives still being held are believed to be alive.
