US ‘not an agent of Israel’ in Hamas talks, Trump hostage envoy says
U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hold a joint press conference in Washington, D.C. Feb. 04, 2025. (AA Photo)
In a significant diplomatic development, Adam Boehler, President Donald Trump’s hostage envoy, has defended his direct negotiations with Hamas officials, emphasizing that the United States is pursuing its own agenda rather than acting on Israel’s behalf.
“We’re the United States. We’re not an agent of Israel,” Boehler told Israel’s Channel 12 on Sunday, responding to criticism from Israeli officials reportedly blindsided by the talks.
The negotiations, which are running parallel to ongoing mediation efforts by Qatar and Egypt, have primarily focused on securing the release of American hostages held in Gaza. Boehler expressed optimism about the prospects, stating: “You’ve got a real chance for some movement and seeing hostages home in the next few weeks.”
Trump envoy claims Hamas proposed disarming in 10 years
In a separate interview with KAN News, Boehler revealed that Hamas had proposed a significant concession: a five- to 10-year truce during which the group would disarm and withdraw from Gaza’s political leadership.
“They suggested exchanging all prisoners … and a five-year to 10-year truce where Hamas would lay down all weapons,” he said, describing it as “not a bad first offer.” However, he noted that Hamas has not yet formally committed to these terms.
Addressing concerns that the United States might prioritize the release of American captives over Israeli hostages, Boehler offered reassurance: “Our commitment is full. We intend to get both Americans and Israelis out.”
The direct engagement has reportedly strained relations with some Israeli officials. According to The Times of Israel, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer “lashed out” at Boehler upon learning of the discussions. Boehler defended his approach, stating that his efforts were meant to “jumpstart negotiations that were in a very fragile place.”
Despite the diplomatic outreach, Boehler maintained a clear stance on Hamas itself. “Hamas is a terrorist organization that has murdered thousands of innocent people. They are BY DEFINITION BAD people,” he wrote on the social media platform X.
The talks represent an unusual direct engagement between U.S. officials and Hamas, which Washington has designated as a terrorist organization since 1997.
Boehler confirmed that while President Trump had been briefed on the negotiations, they were approved by a team of White House officials led by Steve Witkoff, Trump’s Middle East envoy.
