The Trump administration is engaging in direct talks with Hamas regarding the release of American hostages in the Gaza Strip, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. President Trump sees this as a good faith effort for the American people, with Israel being consulted on the matter. This comes after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas ended with no peace negotiations extended, marking the first direct talks between the U.S. and the terrorist group.
Originally, the second phase of the ceasefire was supposed to include the release of more hostages by Hamas in exchange for Israel’s withdrawal from Palestinian territory, but no further talks occurred. Israel then stopped humanitarian aid to Gaza, leading to accusations from Hamas that Israel was not honoring the ceasefire agreement.
Israel approved a plan from U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, which would have continued the first stage of the ceasefire, but Hamas rejected it, leading to further tensions. The United States has supported Israel’s decision to take next steps, as Hamas indicated they are no longer interested in negotiation.
Netanyahu warned Hamas of consequences if more hostages were not released, emphasizing that they are preparing for the next stages of the campaign. The initial ceasefire was announced by the Biden administration, requiring Israel to pause military operations in Gaza in exchange for the release of hostages.
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