The United States broke a longstanding diplomatic taboo by holding secret talks with Hamas on securing the release of U.S. hostages held in Gaza, sources told Reuters on Wednesday, while President Donald Trump warned of “hell to pay” should the Palestinian militant group not comply. U.S. hostage affairs envoy Adam Boehler has the authority to […]
Hamas stated that Donald Trump's threats against Palestinians encourage Benjamin Netanyahu to avoid a Gaza ceasefire deal and intensify the Gaza siege. These threats followed secret talks between a Trump envoy and Hamas, mediated by Egyptian and Qatari officials, regarding the release of hostages. Hamas believes that adhering to the existing ceasefire agreement, which includes a second phase to free remaining hostages and negotiate an end to the war, is the best path forward. Israel has imposed a blockade on Gaza, demanding the release of hostages before further negotiations, while Palestinians fear starvation.