Israeli officials express frustration as Washington engages directly with Hamas in talks over hostages in Gaza
Tensions between Israel and the US are beginning to surface as the Biden administration pursues direct talks with Hamas over hostages in Gaza, including an American citizen.
US envoy for hostages Adam Boehler recently engaged in discussions with a senior Hamas figure, prompting criticism from Israeli officials, who maintain that the group is a terrorist organisation and cannot be trusted.
Addressing the concerns, Mr Boehler stated on 9 March that while Israel had voiced reservations, it remains valuable for the US to understand Hamas’ demands and proposals.
“We are acting in pursuit of our own national interests, not as intermediaries for Israel,” he said in an interview with CNN.
This diplomatic friction is one of the first significant differences to emerge under President Donald Trump’s administration, despite his strong backing of Israel. Some Israeli officials, however, are uneasy about his unpredictable foreign policy moves, which have included direct talks with Russia and other unexpected diplomatic initiatives.
Public Criticism from Israeli Leaders
On 10 March, Israeli Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter criticised Mr Boehler’s approach on Israel Radio, stating, “Even with the best intentions, the way this was handled is deeply flawed. It’s dangerous to make such moves without full coordination with Israel.”
Israeli authorities argue that past disagreements with the US—especially under former President Joe Biden—emboldened Hamas. Initially optimistic about closer alignment with the US under Mr Trump, they now see Washington’s outreach to Hamas as a step in the wrong direction.
Despite the controversy, Mr Boehler reassured Israeli media that the US-Israel relationship remains solid and that the priority remains securing the return of all hostages.
Ceasefire Talks and Ongoing Conflict
Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, after a recent visit to Washington, reaffirmed that Israel is “fully aligned” with the US administration but stressed that negotiations with Hamas should not be led by Washington.
Meanwhile, an Israeli delegation is set to arrive in Qatar for indirect talks with Hamas, mediated by officials from Egypt, Qatar, and the US. Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is expected to attend.
Despite diplomatic efforts, Israel has signalled its readiness to resume military operations against Hamas if necessary. Public sentiment in Israel remains divided—many prioritise the safe return of the 59 remaining hostages, of whom 24 are believed to be alive, over continued military action.
The conflict erupted in October 2023 when Hamas fighters launched an incursion into Israel, resulting in 1,200 deaths and the abduction of 250 people. Israel’s subsequent military response has led to significant casualties in Gaza, with Hamas-run health authorities reporting 48,000 deaths.
A 42-day ceasefire phase ended over a week ago after the release of 33 hostages in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and increased humanitarian aid. However, negotiations for a second phase remain stalled, with Israel blocking further aid deliveries into Gaza.
