Trump’s hostage envoy says he believes Hamas would eventually lay down its arms, not be part of Gaza’s political future

US special envoy on hostages Adam Boehler tells Israel’s Channel 12 news that efforts to free captives in Gaza via direct talks with Hamas are not only focused on those holding American passports.

“The intent wasn’t just Edan [Alexander] and the four [dead American hostages]…it was to lead and to really enter into broader talks on all of the prisoners because the President made very clear that we’re focused on not just Americans here, American-Israelis, but Israelis overall… they are very connected and it’s important to note that.”

The comments come after some in Israel expressed concerns that the White House could pull back its pressure for a deal once it manages to get Americans out of Gaza, even if Israelis and others are still left behind.

A Hamas official told Reuters earlier in the day that Alexander had been the focus of talks with Boehler thus far.

Boehler says he “understands” Israelis’ concerns.

“We are getting all hostages, all hostages. If some Americans come out that doesn’t change our focus on getting everything out as well as ending what is basically a war right now,” he says.

“You do not need to have fear that the president of the US, or I, or anyone in our administration will forget you,” he says, addressing Israeli viewers. “We made that promise, the president made that promise, and I follow my orders from the president of the US.”

Boehler, who also speaks to other Hebrew-language newscasts this evening, is asked by Channel 12 whether he “realistically” thinks “that Hamas would eventually agree to lay down its weapons and not be part of Gaza’s political future.” He answers: “I do believe that.”

Addressing his direct talks with Hamas officials in recent weeks, Boehler predicts “there will be movement on the hostage side…and I think it’s very well set up for the Israelis to do well.”

The Trump official says he cannot confirm the reported US proposal for 10 released hostages in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire, saying “there’s a lot of things going around… that could be a possible solution… I think that should be looked at.”

He would not comment on the number of meetings held with Hamas, but said some focused on hostages, while other talks discussed Hamas’s outlook on where negotiations should go.

Defending his decision to engage directly with the terror group, Boehler says “it is hard to negotiate anything if you don’t understand the other party at all.”