The Trump administration’s direct negotiations with Hamas over the release of US hostages marked a stark break from decades of US policy against engaging with designated terrorist organizations. Before former President Donald Trump issued an ultimatum to Hamas—threatening “hell to pay” if all hostages were not freed—his administration had already been in secret discussions with the group, sources revealed.
Secret Talks in Doha
US presidential envoy for hostage affairs Adam Boehler held multiple meetings with Hamas officials in Doha in recent weeks, sources told Reuters and Axios. These discussions, previously undisclosed, involved negotiations over the release of US citizens still held in Gaza. However, the scope of the talks reportedly extended beyond hostage releases, touching on a broader ceasefire agreement.
The revelation contradicts longstanding US policy, as the State Department has classified Hamas as a terrorist organization since 1997. Until now, Washington had relied on intermediaries—such as Qatar and Egypt—to communicate with the group. The White House confirmed Boehler’s direct engagement, stating that he had the authority to conduct such talks, but it did not specify when Israel was informed.
Trump’s Public Threat
After meeting with hostages recently released under a ceasefire deal, Trump took to social media with an unambiguous warning to Hamas. He demanded the immediate release of all remaining hostages, including the remains of those confirmed dead, or else Hamas would face severe consequences.
“I am sending Israel everything it needs to finish the job,” Trump declared, adding that “not a single Hamas member will be safe” unless the hostages were freed. His comments echoed past threats, including those made in the lead-up to the January ceasefire agreement.
Israeli and Hamas Responses
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office issued a measured response, acknowledging that Israel had expressed its position on direct US-Hamas negotiations but refraining from disclosing further details.
Meanwhile, the Palestinian Mujahideen, a military group in Gaza, denounced Trump’s remarks as a sign of US complicity in alleged crimes against Palestinians. Hamas has yet to comment publicly on the matter.
Potential Implications
Trump’s approach—directly engaging with Hamas while maintaining a hardline stance—marks a dramatic departure from prior US administrations. Former US intelligence official Jonathan Panikoff noted that while these negotiations could expedite hostage releases, they might also embolden Hamas to take more hostages in the future, knowing that Washington is willing to negotiate.
The extent to which the secret talks influenced Trump’s public ultimatum remains unclear. However, with hostages still in captivity and the Gaza ceasefire teetering, the consequences of these negotiations may unfold in the coming weeks.
