The White House confirmed Wednesday that a special U.S. envoy has engaged in unprecedented negotiations directly with Hamas and has President Trump’s authority to “talk to anyone.”
Sources indicate that the envoy, led by Adam Boehler, recently met with Hamas officials in Doha. The U.S. has never previously engaged directly with Hamas, which has been designated a terrorist organization since 1997.
Israel reportedly learned of the meeting through “other channels” but had discussed the possibility of U.S. talks with Hamas before Wednesday’s announcement.
President Trump referred to the effort as his final warning to Hamas, urging the group to release all remaining hostages immediately, “OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER!“