In his conversation with Netanyahu’s confidante, Bohler reportedly explained that the discussions with Hamas were merely initial talks, assuring that nothing would be finalised without Israel’s approval.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s close confidante and a US official held talks regarding the secret negotiation between the US and Hamas for the release of hostages. Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer is reported to have lashed out at the US hostage envoy Adam Boehler as Israel learnt about the meeting Trump’s envoy had with Hamas representatives, led by Khalil al-Hayya in Doha, The Times of Israel reports.
Dermer lashed out at Boehler for discussing the number of Palestinian prisoners Israel would release in exchange for the five Israeli-American hostages still in Gaza without PM Netanyahu’s consent, according to a report by Axios.
Bohler, Trump’s hostage envoy, tried to explain that the discussions with Hamas were merely initial talks, assuring the Israeli official that nothing would be finalised without Israel’s approval.
Moreover, the US has accused Israel of leaking Boehler’s meeting with Hayya to the media, ultimately decreasing trust between the sides, a Western official said.
The talks between Hamas and the US revolved around bringing home the bodies of four American hostages and Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old American hostage. It also included the number of Palestinian prisoners Israel would release in exchange for Alexander, which appears to be a contentious issue between both countries.
Meanwhile, Israel has cut off food, fuel, medicine and other supplies to Gaza’s 2 million people, making food prices soar
The aid freeze has imperiled the tenuous progress aid workers say they have made to stave off famine over the past six weeks during Phase 1 of the ceasefire deal Israel and Hamas agreed to in January After more than 16 months of war, Gaza’s population is entirely dependent on trucked-in food and other aid.
Most are displaced from their homes, and many need shelter. Fuel is needed to keep hospitals, water pumps, bakeries and telecommunications — as well as trucks delivering aid — operating.