Reports claim US holding direct talks with Hamas over Gaza hostages

Media reports claim that the Trump administration has been holding secret discussions with Hamas to secure the release of American hostages still being held in Gaza, a source briefed on the matter has confirmed. The talks, conducted by U.S. special envoy for hostage affairs Adam Boehler, have reportedly taken place in recent weeks in Doha.

The United States had previously avoided direct engagement with Hamas, which was designated a foreign terrorist organisation by the U.S. State Department in 1997. If confirmed, these discussions would mark a shift in approach as Washington explores ways to secure the hostages' freedom.

What reports say?

According to media reports, the discussions have not only focused on the release of American hostages but have also included talks about a wider agreement to free all remaining captives and achieve a long-term ceasefire in Gaza.

The Israeli embassy in Washington has not immediately commented on the development. Boehler's office has also declined to comment, while the White House has yet to issue a response.

U.S. President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is expected to return to the region in the coming days. A State Department spokesperson has stated that his mission will be to either extend the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal or move negotiations forward to the second phase.