According to the reports on Thursday (6 March), Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of all Israeli hostages held in Gaza. He declared that if Hamas failed to comply, they would face severe consequences, stating, “It is OVER for you.” His statement followed direct talks between U.S. officials and Hamas for the first time since 1997, breaking a long-standing U.S. policy against negotiating with designated terrorist organizations. These discussions aimed to secure the release of U.S.-Israeli hostages and explore a potential ceasefire.
The White House confirmed that Adam Boehler, the U.S. hostage affairs envoy, was authorized to engage in these negotiations, which reportedly took place in Doha. The discussions also included efforts to secure the release of the last known American hostage, Edan Alexander. Hamas has not officially commented on these talks, but a Palestinian militant group condemned Trump’s remarks, accusing the U.S. of complicity in Israel’s actions in Gaza. Israeli officials acknowledged being consulted on the talks but did not disclose further details.
Gaza remains in crisis as Israel’s blockade continues to cause severe food shortages, with warnings that supplies could run out within two weeks. Fighting has been halted since January 19, following a temporary ceasefire in which Hamas exchanged Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners. However, Israeli authorities believe fewer than half of the remaining 59 hostages are still alive. Meanwhile, Trump’s controversial proposal to resettle Gaza’s population and transform the region into a resort has drawn widespread criticism from Arab nations and human rights groups.
The U.S. administration is now navigating the risks and potential benefits of engaging directly with Hamas. Some experts argue that such negotiations could facilitate hostage releases and lead to a longer-term truce, while others warn that talking to Hamas could encourage future hostage-taking. Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is set to return to the region to further discussions on extending the ceasefire or moving toward a second phase of the agreement. With American lives at stake, the U.S. faces a complex and high-stakes diplomatic challenge in the region.
References
