“You are dead” if Gazans do not turn up Israeli prisoners, according to US President Donald Trump.
Hours after the White House announced that US officials had deviated from custom by holding direct conversations with Hamas, the threat was posted on social media.
Due to Washington’s long-standing stance against engaging in direct negotiations with terrorists—Hamas has been classified as a terrorist organization in the US since 1997—the US has historically avoided direct contact with the group.
According to White House press secretary Ms. Keavitt, there have been “ongoing talks and discussions” between Hamas and US officials during a news briefing on Wednesday.
Although she stated that Israel had been contacted, she did not elaborate on the specifics of the discussions between US officials and Hamas that are now taking place in Doha, Qatar.
Ms. Leavitt went on: “Dialogue and talking to people around the world to do what’s in the best interest of the American people, is something that the president has proven is what he believes is a good faith, effort to do what’s right for the American people.”
Mr. Trump’s choice to serve as special envoy for hostage problems, Adam Boehler, took part in the direct negotiations with Hamas.
Israel has “expressed to the United States its position regarding direct talks with Hamas,” according to a spokesman for Benjamin Netanyahu’s office.
