Wed Mar 05 20:59:33 UTC 2025: ## US Holds Secret Talks with Hamas Amid Gaza Humanitarian Crisis

**Jerusalem/Washington D.C.** – The United States is engaged in direct talks with Hamas, a move that marks a significant shift in US policy, as negotiations for a lasting ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian militant group remain precarious. The talks, confirmed by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, focus primarily on securing the release of Israeli and American hostages held in Gaza.

Leavitt, while declining to elaborate on the specifics of the negotiations, citing concerns for American lives, confirmed reports by Axios that former Trump administration official Adam Boehler is participating in the discussions. A Hamas official also confirmed the negotiations to AFP. This direct engagement with Hamas represents a departure from previous US policy, which had barred direct contact since designating the group as a terrorist organization in 1997. Israel has been informed of these talks.

The discussions come as the first phase of a previously agreed-upon ceasefire expired, with Israel halting humanitarian aid to Gaza – a move condemned by France, the UK, and Germany as a violation of international law. Israel is demanding further concessions from Hamas, including the release of more hostages, before agreeing to a ceasefire extension. The three European nations issued a joint statement emphasizing that humanitarian aid should never be used as a political tool and urging Israel to restore the flow of essential supplies to the beleaguered Gaza Strip.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza is described as catastrophic, with reports indicating that approximately 24 Israeli and foreign hostages, including at least one American citizen, are still being held. The bodies of at least 35 others are also believed to remain in Gaza. The US reportedly aims to secure the release of both the living and deceased captives. Hamas, however, insists on progressing to the next phase of the ceasefire agreement, which includes further prisoner releases by Israel. The ongoing stalemate raises serious concerns about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and the prospects for a lasting peace.

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