The United States has engaged in urgent negotiations with Hamas regarding the release of the last living American Israeli hostage in Gaza. Senior U.S. official Adam Boehler aimed for an agreement to secure the hostage's release in time for a speech by President Trump to Congress. However, the deadline was not met, and the president only briefly referenced hostages in Gaza during his address.
Despite backing Israel in its military campaign against Hamas, the Trump administration conducted three rounds of talks with senior Hamas officials in Qatar. This marked a significant departure from long-standing U.S. policy of refraining from direct contact with the group, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the United States.
During recent discussions, the Trump administration prioritized the release of hostages as a critical goal, contrasting with what it perceived as challenges faced by the Biden administration. However, talks were complicated by Israeli opposition and Hamas's reluctance, ultimately preventing an agreement to free Edan Alexander, the hostage in question.
These negotiations were distinct from the stalled cease-fire efforts between Israel and Hamas, with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu asserting that military operations would continue until Hamas's military capabilities and governance were dismantled. In contrast, Hamas expressed a willingness to relinquish control of civilian governance but not its armed forces.
The U.S. officials sensed that a resumption of Israeli military operations in Gaza was imminent, jeopardizing the safety of Alexander and the release of four other Israeli Americans. Boehler speculated that Hamas might seek to secure goodwill with Trump, which could facilitate future discussions about a potential cease-fire.
During the first meeting after iftar, U.S. officials engaged with Hamas representatives who emphasized their desire for Palestinian freedom, appealing to American values. Discussions included the repercussions of the ongoing conflict, which has claimed numerous lives according to Gazan health authorities.
In subsequent discussions, Hamas offered to reduce its demands for prisoner exchanges, suggesting it would seek the release of fewer prisoners than usual. Boehler countered with a proposal aimed at securing the hostage's freedom but faced pressure from Israeli officials who were not informed about the talks in advance.
As negotiations progressed, U.S. officials shifted their proposal, ultimately offering a final deal that included the release of prisoners and aid deliveries to Gaza. However, the atmosphere surrounding the talks was tense, with Israeli officials reportedly undermining the negotiations.
The final meeting underscored the urgency of the situation, with Boehler conveying that the offer might be withdrawn if not accepted promptly. Despite Hamas's initial interest, they later indicated reluctance to accept the terms proposed by the U.S.
A week later, Hamas expressed a willingness to negotiate a deal that aligned closely with Boehler's earlier proposal. However, by that time, direct negotiations had ceased, and subsequent U.S. demands shifted focus away from the immediate hostage situation. Shortly thereafter, Israel resumed its military operations in Gaza, leaving Alexander's fate uncertain.