The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is secretly contacting the Palestinian group Hamas to discuss the possible release of American hostages held in the Gaza Strip.
According to Reuters, citing two informed sources, U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Adam Boehler has been holding negotiations with Hamas representatives in Doha, the capital of Qatar, in recent weeks.
Washington had previously avoided direct contacts with the group, which has been designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. since 1997. This move contradicts longstanding American policy, which excludes dialogue with recognized terrorist organizations.
Sources report that the talks have primarily focused on the release of American hostages. However, broader agreements were also discussed, including the release of all remaining hostages and the possibility of a long-term ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Earlier, Donald Trump proposed a plan to “revitalize” the Gaza Strip, stating that the U.S. could “turn it into the Riviera of the Middle East.” He also suggested considering the relocation of Palestinians to neighboring countries such as Egypt and Jordan, while some Israeli officials proposed their resettlement in European states that have recognized Palestine.
