Israel bypassed in US-led talks with Hamas: Report

An Israeli official informed The New York Times that Israel discovered details of direct negotiations between the US and Hamas not through the United States but via unspecified “other channels”.

The official stated the discussions occurred in Qatar’s capital, spearheaded by US envoy Adam Boehler. The talks reportedly centred on securing the release of Israeli-American captive Edan Alexander, who is thought to be alive, as well as repatriating the remains of four US citizens.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the negotiations with Hamas, stating: “The special envoy engaged in those negotiations has the authority to talk to anyone. Israel was consulted on this matter. [...] These are ongoing talks, there are American lives at stake.”