According to recent statements from the White House, Donald Trump has sent an envoy for direct talks with Hamas regarding the Israeli hostages being held in the Gaza Strip. This move marks a shift in policy, as the US had previously abstained from direct engagement with Hamas, categorizing it as a terrorist organization.

Trump released a stern message on Truth Social, urging Hamas to release all hostages immediately, including the bodies of those who have been killed. He warned that failure to do so would result in severe consequences for Hamas.

The president also addressed the people of Gaza, suggesting that a promising future awaits them if they release the hostages. Otherwise, he stated dire outcomes.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed these talks, assuring that they were in the best interest of the American people and that American lives were at stake. This assertion might refer to Edan Alexander, a US citizen currently held by Hamas, as well as four other hostages believed to be deceased.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged that Israel was consulted regarding these talks. A Hamas official stated that the discussions centered around hostage release and the possibility of ending the conflict without Hamas in power in Gaza, though no progress was made from these initial talks.

The future of the ceasefire remains in limbo. Israel has proposed a plan wherein Hamas would release half of its remaining hostages in exchange for negotiations on a lasting truce. The ceasefire’s initial phase would reportedly extend until mid-April.

Hamas has contested Israel’s recent decision to block aid and food supplies from Gaza, arguing that these measures should not impede hunger and malnutrition relief.

Source: https://www.euronews.com/2025/03/06/trump-issues-last-warning-to-hamas-as-it-confirms-direct-hostage-talks