U.S. President Donald Trump revealed yesterday (Thursday) in a White House press briefing that his administration is engaged in direct negotiations with the Hamas terrorist organization to secure the release of Israeli and American hostages still held in Gaza.
“We are conducting discussions with Hamas,” Trump said. “We are helping Israel in these discussions because we are talking about Israeli hostages. We are not doing anything for Hamas. We are not giving them money like previous administrations have. I see this as something where we are helping Israel.”
Video: Voice of America
Joint Military Action in Gaza? “You’ll Find Out”
Trump added, “In most cases, we have already managed to release several American hostages, so yes, negotiations are necessary. There is a difference between negotiations and payments. I want to get these people out. If you had seen the freed hostages yesterday and the way they spoke about their captivity, it was simply unbelievable.”
Regarding the situation in Gaza, Trump stated, “Gaza is a mess, and I think it could be good. It needs to be managed properly, but right now it’s a complete disaster, and it has been for many years, even decades.” When asked whether the U.S. might conduct joint military operations in Gaza alongside Israel, he responded, “You’ll find out.”
“Edan Alexander Is a Priority”
Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, reinforced the president’s message, emphasizing that Edan Alexander, an injured Israeli-American hostage, is a top priority for the administration.
“Edan Alexander is very important to us. He is wounded and is at the top of our priority list. I hope we will see responsible behavior from Hamas next week so I can travel to Qatar and hold productive talks,” Witkoff said.
“Hamas Has a Chance to Leave Gaza—Or Face the Consequences”
Witkoff added: “The president’s message to Hamas yesterday was that he is fed up. I wouldn’t test this president… There will be some action taken. But Hamas Hamas has an opportunity to act reasonably, to do what’s right, and then to walk out. They will not be part of Gaza’s future governance. If they understand that, they have a way out.”
“There Is Definitely a Deadline for Resuming Military Action”
Regarding Hamas’ threats that renewed fighting could endanger the hostages, Witkoff warned: “There is definitely a deadline for resuming military action—but I cannot disclose it. Hamas needs to start acting responsibly and rationally.”
