(CLO) On March 5, the US confirmed that it held direct talks with Hamas for the first time on the hostage issue, and issued an ultimatum to the militant group on the hostage issue in Gaza.
The White House said President Donald Trump's special envoy for hostage affairs, Adam Boehler, has been conducting negotiations to ensure the safety of American citizens still being held in Gaza.
US President Donald Trump. Photo: WH
"Israel has been consulted on this matter," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed to reporters.
The US has previously refused to talk directly to Hamas since it was listed as a terrorist organisation in 1997. However, Ms Leavitt insisted that special envoy Adam Boehler had the authority to "talk to anyone".
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office confirmed it had been informed of the talks and said it had "expressed its views" on the matter.
The meetings between Mr. Boehler and Hamas representatives took place in Qatar, not only about rescuing American hostages but also aiming at a long-term ceasefire agreement.
Five US citizens remain in custody since the October 7, 2023 attack. Four have been confirmed dead, while hostage Edan Alexander is believed to be alive.
On the same day, March 5, Mr. Trump warned that Hamas leaders had a final chance to leave Gaza, and pressured the organization to release the hostages.
"I will give Israel everything they need to get the job done. No Hamas member will be safe unless they do what I ask," Trump said on Truth Social. "This is a final warning! Hamas leaders, now is the time to leave Gaza while you still have the chance."
It remains unclear whether the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas will hold after the first phase ends. Mr Trump has signalled he will not stop Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu from continuing the military campaign if Hamas does not agree to a new deal.
Cao Phong (according to CNA, Newsweek, Axios)
Source: https://www.congluan.vn/my-doi-thoai-truc-tiep-va-gui-toi-hau-thu-toi-hamas-post337278.html
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