US confirms talks with Hamas as Trump issues 'last warning' on hostage releases

The White House has confirmed that "ongoing talks and discussions" are taking place between the United States and Hamas officials, while the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas remains uncertain. This marks the first known direct contact between the U.S. and the organization since the State Department designated Hamas as a terrorist group in 1997, signaling a potential shift in diplomatic strategy.

The United States has long avoided direct contact with Hamas, the group that launched a cross-border attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing more than 1,200 people and triggering a devastating war in the Gaza Strip. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Donald Trump had authorized his envoys to "talk to anyone," but declined to provide details of the talks, emphasizing the sensitivity of the situation.

Ms. Leavitt said, "Look, having conversations and talking with people around the world to do what is in the best interest of the American people is what the President… believes is a sincere effort, is to do what is good for the American people." She indicated that Israel had been informed of the matter, but did not specify whether it was before or after the talks, noting that "American lives are at stake," underscoring the urgency and importance of these discussions.

Following Ms. Leavitt's comments, Mr. Trump posted what he called a "final warning" to Hamas on his Truth Social platform, demanding the release of all hostages still held in Gaza. Trump added that he was "giving Israel everything they need to get the job done," reaffirming his support for Israel's efforts. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office briefly acknowledged the U.S.-Hamas talks, stating that "Israel has conveyed its position to the United States regarding direct talks with Hamas," highlighting the delicate balance of these diplomatic engagements.

Israeli officials have stated that approximately 24 living hostages, including U.S. citizen Edan Alexander, and the remains of at least 35 others are believed to still be held in Gaza. Four other American hostages have been declared dead by Israeli authorities, but their remains have not yet been found. Adam Bohler, Trump's nominee to handle hostage affairs, led the direct talks with Hamas, indicating the level of importance placed on this issue by the U.S. administration.

According to a Hamas official who was not authorized to speak publicly and requested anonymity, the talks held last month primarily focused on the release of American hostages and the possibility of ending the war in the event that Hamas no longer controls Gaza. The official added that no progress was made, but "this step in itself is promising," and more talks are expected, suggesting a willingness to continue dialogue. Egyptian and Qatari mediators helped arrange the talks, highlighting the regional cooperation in facilitating these delicate discussions.

This direct contact comes at a time when the continued existence of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas remains uncertain. Under a new ceasefire proposal, which Israel says was drafted by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, Hamas would release half of the remaining hostages in exchange for an extension of the ceasefire agreement and a commitment to negotiate a lasting truce. Israel made no mention of releasing more Palestinian prisoners, a key component of the first phase. Fighting in Gaza has been halted since January 19, and Hamas has exchanged 33 Israeli hostages and 5 Thai nationals for approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees, illustrating the complexities and potential for future negotiations.