May 1, 2025 3:51 am
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US-Hamas Talks on Gaza Prisoner Release Fail: Israeli Media

The United States recently held its first direct talks with Hamas, the Palestinian armed group, aiming to secure the release of prisoners in Gaza and bring an end to the ongoing conflict. These discussions were initiated by the Trump administration.

However, according to Israeli media reports, the negotiations between the US and Hamas have failed. Neither side has officially confirmed this. The news was reported by the Anadolu Agency on March 9.

Israeli Channel 12, citing an unnamed source, stated that the talks broke down over the release of Israeli prisoners with American citizenship held by Hamas. No further details were provided.

The report came just hours after Israel’s state broadcaster announced progress in discussions between US Ambassador Adam Boehler and Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya. Despite this, there was no immediate response from Hamas or Washington regarding the situation.

Previously, US media outlet Axios reported that the Trump administration had engaged in direct talks with Hamas to negotiate the release of American citizens held in Gaza.

Meanwhile, Israel plans to send a delegation to Qatar to advance ceasefire negotiations with Hamas. The Israeli government has agreed to participate in the talks at the request of Qatar and Egypt, with US support.

US envoy for Middle East affairs, Steve Witkoff, is expected to visit the region on Tuesday to extend the first phase of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas.

Background

Israel estimates that 59 prisoners remain in Gaza, including at least 22 believed to be alive. These prisoners are expected to be released in the second phase of a prisoner exchange agreement, which could lead to the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and a permanent ceasefire.

The Gaza ceasefire has been in place since January 19, 2025, as part of a three-phase agreement focusing on prisoner exchange, lasting peace, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. Since October 2023, more than 48,400 people, mostly women and children, have died in Gaza due to the conflict. The territory has been devastated by the ongoing violence.

In November last year, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing genocide charges at the International Court of Justice.

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