U.S. officials held discussions with Hamas about post-war governance and a hostage agreement, reported Egyptian sources. Former President Trump’s warnings complicate the ceasefire, while Israeli officials dispute claims of progress. Ongoing talks about Gaza’s future leadership are underway, amid contrasting views on negotiations.
On Wednesday night, U.S. officials engaged in discussions with Hamas leaders, facilitated by Egyptian and Qatari mediators, addressing post-war governance in Gaza and the potential next steps for a hostage agreement. Reports from Egyptian officials indicate that the discussions concluded positively, though an Israeli official refuted this claim, asserting that no progress has been acknowledged regarding the second phase of the negotiations.
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem expressed concerns regarding former President Trump’s comments, stating they complicate the ceasefire and urging him to pressure Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu into negotiations for the next phase. Qassem cautioned that Israel could leverage Trump’s statements to intensify its blockade against Gaza and exacerbate humanitarian hardships.
Former President Trump, after a meeting with recently released hostages, called for the immediate release of all remaining captives in a post on Truth Social. He issued a stern warning to Hamas, highlighting, “‘Shalom Hamas’ means both Hello and Goodbye—you decide,” while demanding the return of all hostages and deceased individuals held by Hamas.
Simultaneously, U.S. and Egyptian officials deliberated on future governance options in Gaza, alongside potential leadership candidates. Although discussions reportedly occurred in a positive atmosphere, specifics about any agreements reached remain unclear. Israeli officials continue to dispute the notion of progress, contending there has been no substantial advancement in the hostage negotiations, with one source stating that, “We do not recognize any progress in the talks on phase two.”
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar indicated that Israel is ready to advance with the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire negotiations, contingent upon Hamas’s willingness to release more of the 59 hostages currently in their possession.
In summary, U.S. officials have engaged with Hamas regarding governance in Gaza and potential advancements in a hostage agreement, despite conflicting reports from Israeli officials. Concerns surrounding Trump’s statements have emerged, with Hamas urging negotiation pressure on Israel. Both positive and negative assessments of progress characterize the ongoing situation, reflected in international discussions around Gaza’s future leadership and hostages.
Original Source: www.jewishpress.com
