Hamas has announced its willingness to release an Israeli-American soldier while also offering the remains of four other hostages. However, US envoy Steve Witkoff has rejected Hamas' demands, calling them "entirely impractical." Meanwhile, Israeli settlers have raided a village in the West Bank, and tensions continue to escalate in Gaza.

Hamas offers to release Israeli-American soldier amid conflict

US envoy Steve Witkoff rejects offer by Hamas, considers Hamas' demands impractical

The White House on Friday (March 14) accused the Palestinian militant group Hamas of making "entirely impractical" demands and delaying the deal to release a US-Israeli hostage in exchange for Gaza ceasefire extension.&nbsp;
US special envoy to the Mideast Steve Witkoff publicly talked about the "bridge proposal", which he presented in Qatar on Wednesday to extend the first phase of the ceasefire to mid-April if Hamas releases living hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
&ldquo;Hamas is making a very bad bet that time is on its side. It is not,&rdquo; a statement from the office of Witkoff and the US National Security Council read.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/manipulation-psychological-warfare-netanyahu-slams-hamas-for-rejecting-witkoff-proposal-8853836">'Manipulation, psychological warfare': Netanyahu slams Hamas for rejecting 'Witkoff proposal'</a>
"Hamas is well aware of the deadline, and should know that we will respond accordingly if that deadline passes," he added.&nbsp;
The statement reiterated that Hamas would "pay a severe price" for not freeing hostages.
"Hamas was told in no uncertain terms that this 'bridge' would have to be implemented soon -- and that dual US-Israeli citizen Edan Alexander would have to be released immediately," the statement said.
"Unfortunately, Hamas has chosen to respond by publicly claiming flexibility while privately making demands that are entirely impractical without a permanent ceasefire," it added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-welcomes-trumps-withdrawal-from-plans-to-displace-palestinians-in-gaza-8851344">Hamas welcomes Trump&rsquo;s withdrawal from plans to relocate Palestinians</a>
Earlier in the day, Hamas said that it was ready to free an Israeli-American hostage and the remains of four others, after the Palestinian militants and Israel resumed indirect Gaza ceasefire negotiations.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office blasted Hamas for rejecting what they call the 'Witkoff proposal'.&nbsp;
&ldquo;While Israel has accepted the Witkoff proposal,&rdquo; the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office said, &ldquo;Hamas remains firm in its refusal and has not budged one millimeter.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-surprised-after-trump-official-says-us-working-for-itself-says-hamas-militants-pretty-nice-guys-8837672">&lsquo;Hamas militants are pretty nice guys&rsquo;: US &lsquo;surprises&rsquo; Israel after envoy says Washington working for itself</a>
Further, the PMO accused Hamas of engaging in manipulation and psychological warfare.&rdquo;
Netanyahu is scheduled to convene top aides and senior ministers on Saturday night to hear a briefing from Israel's negotiators, saying that his office will decide on the next moves.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/great-cars-netanyahu-to-buy-electric-cars-from-elon-musks-tesla-for-israeli-officials-8852513">'Great cars': Netanyahu to buy electric cars from Elon Musk's Tesla for Israeli officials</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “Hamas is making a very bad bet that time is on its side. It is not,” a statement from the office of Witkoff and the US National Security Council read.

The White House on Friday (March 14) accused the Palestinian militant group Hamas of making "entirely impractical" demands and delaying the deal to release a US-Israeli hostage in exchange for Gaza ceasefire extension. US special envoy to the Mideast Steve Witkoff publicly talked about the "bridge proposal", which he presented in Qatar on Wednesday to extend the first phase of the ceasefire to mid-April if Hamas releases living hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. “Hamas is making a very bad bet that time is on its side. It is not,” a statement from the office of Witkoff and the US National Security Council read. Also read: 'Manipulation, psychological warfare': Netanyahu slams Hamas for rejecting 'Witkoff proposal' "Hamas is well aware of the deadline, and should know that we will respond accordingly if that deadline passes," he added. The statement reiterated that Hamas would "pay a severe price" for not freeing hostages. "Hamas was told in no uncertain terms that this 'bridge' would have to be implemented soon -- and that dual US-Israeli citizen Edan Alexander would have to be released immediately," the statement said. "Unfortunately, Hamas has chosen to respond by publicly claiming flexibility while privately making demands that are entirely impractical without a permanent ceasefire," it added. Also read: Hamas welcomes Trump’s withdrawal from plans to relocate Palestinians Earlier in the day, Hamas said that it was ready to free an Israeli-American hostage and the remains of four others, after the Palestinian militants and Israel resumed indirect Gaza ceasefire negotiations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office blasted Hamas for rejecting what they call the 'Witkoff proposal'. “While Israel has accepted the Witkoff proposal,” the Prime Minister’s Office said, “Hamas remains firm in its refusal and has not budged one millimeter.” Also read: ‘Hamas militants are pretty nice guys’: US ‘surprises’ Israel after envoy says Washington working for itself Further, the PMO accused Hamas of engaging in manipulation and psychological warfare.” Netanyahu is scheduled to convene top aides and senior ministers on Saturday night to hear a briefing from Israel's negotiators, saying that his office will decide on the next moves. Also read: 'Great cars': Netanyahu to buy electric cars from Elon Musk's Tesla for Israeli officials (With inputs from agencies)

'Will respond accordingly': White House accuses Hamas of making 'very bad bet' on Gaza talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office blasted the Palestinian militant group Hamas for rejecting what they call the 'Witkoff proposal'.&nbsp;
This comes after Hamas said that they agreed to a proposal to release hostage soldier Edan Alexander, a US citizen, and the bodies of four other slain captives who are dual nationals.&nbsp;
US special envoy Steve Witkoff proposed the 'Witkoff outline', which would see half of the hostages released immediately, a ceasefire through the end of Passover, and a possible release of all the other hostages if an agreement is reached on ending the war.
&ldquo;While Israel has accepted the Witkoff proposal,&rdquo; the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office said, &ldquo;Hamas remains firm in its refusal and has not budged one millimeter.&rdquo;
Further, the PMO accused Hamas of engaging in manipulation and psychological warfare.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-welcomes-trumps-withdrawal-from-plans-to-displace-palestinians-in-gaza-8851344">Hamas welcomes Trump&rsquo;s withdrawal from plans to relocate Palestinians</a>
However, Hamas on the contrary, has chosen to adopt a proposal presented by US hostage envoy Adam Boehler during their direct talks last week, Channel 12 reported.&nbsp;
Even after the Palestinian militant group announced to release US-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander and return the bodies of four slain dual nations, neither Alexander&rsquo;s family nor the families of the unnamed slain hostages have been notified of anything new.
Moreover, Netanyahu will convene top aides and senior ministers on Saturday night to hear a briefing from Israel's negotiators, saying that his office will decide on the next moves.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rubio-says-us-hostage-envoys-direct-meeting-with-hamas-hasnt-borne-fruit-8841077">Rubio says US hostage envoy&rsquo;s direct meeting with Hamas &lsquo;hasn&rsquo;t borne fruit&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Hostage forum slams Netanyahu</h2>
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum criticised Netanyahu after his office said that Israel's hostage talks delegation will return from Doha later today, but will not meet him and his senior officials until Saturday night.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The families of the hostages apologize for disturbing you on Shabbat, but their loved ones do not have time to wait!&rdquo; the forum said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-confirms-multiple-meetings-with-us-on-gaza-ceasefire-deal-8836747">Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal</a>
&ldquo;Twenty-four hours in captivity is 24 hours of hell, torment and abuse, it is 24 hours of danger of death and disappearance,&rdquo; it said, urging the ministers to convene sooner than tomorrow night.
&ldquo;For the hostages and their families, there is no Shabbat and no holidays,&rdquo; it added. &ldquo;Return all 59 hostages immediately, and in one fell swoop!&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-surprised-after-trump-official-says-us-working-for-itself-says-hamas-militants-pretty-nice-guys-8837672">&lsquo;Hamas militants are pretty nice guys&rsquo;: US &lsquo;surprises&rsquo; Israel after envoy says Washington working for itself</a>&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Hamas on the contrary, has chosen to adopt a proposal presented by US hostage envoy Adam Boehler during their direct talks last week, Channel 12 reported.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office blasted the Palestinian militant group Hamas for rejecting what they call the 'Witkoff proposal'. This comes after Hamas said that they agreed to a proposal to release hostage soldier Edan Alexander, a US citizen, and the bodies of four other slain captives who are dual nationals. US special envoy Steve Witkoff proposed the 'Witkoff outline', which would see half of the hostages released immediately, a ceasefire through the end of Passover, and a possible release of all the other hostages if an agreement is reached on ending the war. “While Israel has accepted the Witkoff proposal,” the Prime Minister’s Office said, “Hamas remains firm in its refusal and has not budged one millimeter.” Further, the PMO accused Hamas of engaging in manipulation and psychological warfare.” Also read: Hamas welcomes Trump’s withdrawal from plans to relocate Palestinians However, Hamas on the contrary, has chosen to adopt a proposal presented by US hostage envoy Adam Boehler during their direct talks last week, Channel 12 reported. Even after the Palestinian militant group announced to release US-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander and return the bodies of four slain dual nations, neither Alexander’s family nor the families of the unnamed slain hostages have been notified of anything new. Moreover, Netanyahu will convene top aides and senior ministers on Saturday night to hear a briefing from Israel's negotiators, saying that his office will decide on the next moves. Also read: Rubio says US hostage envoy’s direct meeting with Hamas ‘hasn’t borne fruit’ Hostage forum slams Netanyahu The Hostages and Missing Families Forum criticised Netanyahu after his office said that Israel's hostage talks delegation will return from Doha later today, but will not meet him and his senior officials until Saturday night. “The families of the hostages apologize for disturbing you on Shabbat, but their loved ones do not have time to wait!” the forum said. Also read: Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal “Twenty-four hours in captivity is 24 hours of hell, torment and abuse, it is 24 hours of danger of death and disappearance,” it said, urging the ministers to convene sooner than tomorrow night. “For the hostages and their families, there is no Shabbat and no holidays,” it added. “Return all 59 hostages immediately, and in one fell swoop!” Also read: ‘Hamas militants are pretty nice guys’: US ‘surprises’ Israel after envoy says Washington working for itself Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

'Manipulation, psychological warfare': Netanyahu slams Hamas for rejecting 'Witkoff proposal'

Hamas has welcomed the US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s apparent withdrawal from his plan to permanently displace nearly two million Palestinians from Gaza, urging him not to align with the vision of the &ldquo;extreme Zionist right.&rdquo;
The statement by the Palestinian militant group comes after Trump on Wednesday (Mar 12) said that &ldquo;nobody is expelling any Palestinians from Gaza&rdquo; when asked about it during a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Miche&aacute;l Martin at the White House.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rubio-says-us-hostage-envoys-direct-meeting-with-hamas-hasnt-borne-fruit-8841077">Rubio says US hostage envoy&rsquo;s direct meeting with Hamas &lsquo;hasn&rsquo;t borne fruit&rsquo;</a>
&ldquo;If US President Trump's statements represent a retreat from any idea of ​​displacing the people of the Gaza Strip, they are welcomed,&rdquo; Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem said, as quoted by Reuters.
&ldquo;We call for this position to be reinforced by obligating the Israeli occupation to implement all the terms of the ceasefire agreements,&rdquo; he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-offers-flexibility-in-gaza-negotiations-pressures-israel-to-move-forward-8839816">'Continues to renege'; Hamas accuses Israel of backtracking on Gaza truce deal</a>
Last month, Trump put forward a proposal of the US takeover of Gaza, suggesting Palestinians living in the area should be permanently displaced.
<h2>US-Hamas talks</h2>
On Sunday (Mar 9), Taher Al-Nono, political adviser to the leader of Hamas, said that the militant group had direct talks with Washington in the Qatari capital last week. He added that the talks focused on the release of an American-Israeli national who was held by Hamas in Gaza.
He said that the meetings, which happened between the US hostage negotiator Adam Boehler and Hamas leaders, also discussed the implementation of the phased truce agreement to end the Israel-Gaza war.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-surprised-after-trump-official-says-us-working-for-itself-says-hamas-militants-pretty-nice-guys-8837672">&lsquo;Hamas militants are pretty nice guys&rsquo;: US &lsquo;surprises&rsquo; Israel after envoy says Washington working for itself</a>
<h2>Gaza ceasefire truce</h2>
As mediators pushed talks to extend the 42-day truce that started in January, Israel and Hamas hinted that they were preparing for the next phase of the ceasefire negotiations.
A Hamas delegation also held talks with Egyptian mediators and reaffirmed its willingness to negotiate the next phase of the ceasefire. Meanwhile, Israeli negotiators held discussions in Doha on Monday (Mar 10).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-confirms-multiple-meetings-with-us-on-gaza-ceasefire-deal-8836747">Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal</a>
Under the first phase of the ceasefire deal, the Palestinian militant group handed over 25 living hostages, and eight bodies in exchange for the release of about 1,800 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.
On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched an attack on Israel, taking 251 people captive, out of which 58 still remain in Gaza. The Israeli military confirmed that at least 34 of these captives are dead.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Last month, Trump put forward a proposal of the US takeover of Gaza, suggesting Palestinians living in the area should be permanently displaced.

Hamas has welcomed the US President Donald Trump’s apparent withdrawal from his plan to permanently displace nearly two million Palestinians from Gaza, urging him not to align with the vision of the “extreme Zionist right.” The statement by the Palestinian militant group comes after Trump on Wednesday (Mar 12) said that “nobody is expelling any Palestinians from Gaza” when asked about it during a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin at the White House. Also read | Rubio says US hostage envoy’s direct meeting with Hamas ‘hasn’t borne fruit’ “If US President Trump's statements represent a retreat from any idea of displacing the people of the Gaza Strip, they are welcomed,” Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem said, as quoted by Reuters. “We call for this position to be reinforced by obligating the Israeli occupation to implement all the terms of the ceasefire agreements,” he added. Also read | 'Continues to renege'; Hamas accuses Israel of backtracking on Gaza truce deal Last month, Trump put forward a proposal of the US takeover of Gaza, suggesting Palestinians living in the area should be permanently displaced. US-Hamas talks On Sunday (Mar 9), Taher Al-Nono, political adviser to the leader of Hamas, said that the militant group had direct talks with Washington in the Qatari capital last week. He added that the talks focused on the release of an American-Israeli national who was held by Hamas in Gaza. He said that the meetings, which happened between the US hostage negotiator Adam Boehler and Hamas leaders, also discussed the implementation of the phased truce agreement to end the Israel-Gaza war. Also read | ‘Hamas militants are pretty nice guys’: US ‘surprises’ Israel after envoy says Washington working for itself Gaza ceasefire truce As mediators pushed talks to extend the 42-day truce that started in January, Israel and Hamas hinted that they were preparing for the next phase of the ceasefire negotiations. A Hamas delegation also held talks with Egyptian mediators and reaffirmed its willingness to negotiate the next phase of the ceasefire. Meanwhile, Israeli negotiators held discussions in Doha on Monday (Mar 10). Also read | Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal Under the first phase of the ceasefire deal, the Palestinian militant group handed over 25 living hostages, and eight bodies in exchange for the release of about 1,800 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched an attack on Israel, taking 251 people captive, out of which 58 still remain in Gaza. The Israeli military confirmed that at least 34 of these captives are dead. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas welcomes Trump’s withdrawal from plans to relocate Palestinians

Freed Israeli hostage Omer Wenkert said on Wednesday (March 12) that he always 'knew' when Israel-Hamas peace talks were not on track and the ceasefire between them had fallen through, or a senior Hamas operative was killed, because the Palestinian militant group would take it out on him.&nbsp;
Wenkert said he could understand what was happening, although all the hostages were cut off from the outside world during their hundreds of days of captivity.&nbsp;
"Every deal that fell through would bring up a lot of frustration, rage, and anger,&rdquo; Wenkert said, highlighting the painful ordeal of hostages in an interview with Channel 12 news.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-hand-over-bodies-of-four-slain-israeli-hostages-tonight-without-public-ceremony-confirms-netanyahu-8759720">Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu</a>
&ldquo;Not to mention when one of their fathers was killed, or their families, or when their senior officials were assassinated. You feel it. You know exactly what happened," he said.&nbsp;
He further explained that in such cases, Hamas militants used to beat them, spat on them, and forced them to do strenuous physical exercise.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I was very weak physically,&rdquo; he said, adding that his captors&rsquo; goal was &ldquo;humiliation.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-negotiations-with-hamas-helping-israel-because-were-talking-about-israeli-hostages-8829353">Trump says direct talks with Hamas helping Israel: 'We&rsquo;re talking about Israeli hostages'</a>
<h2>'I wet my pants'</h2>
Wenkert, in an interview, shared his day-by-day timeline in captivity, starting with the day he was taken hostage while he was driving down to the Nova music festival with his best friend Kim Damti.
Wenkert initially thought that &ldquo;there was a group of three or four terrorists, and in a moment the IDF will come and take them out. You don&rsquo;t consider the possibility they will reach Re&rsquo;im; it&rsquo;s almost five kilometres from the border. And then the shooting started.&rdquo;
&ldquo;What I remember is that the last time I saw on my watch was 7:29 a.m. and the same second I read that, someone says, &lsquo;Get in, get in. There are terrorists.&rsquo; I hear, &lsquo;Allahu Akbar,&rsquo; a grenade strike inside the shelter and everyone gets down. Explosion," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-offers-flexibility-in-gaza-negotiations-pressures-israel-to-move-forward-8839816">'Continues to renege'; Hamas accuses Israel of backtracking on Gaza truce deal</a>
Wenkert said one of the terrorists told him he would not shoot him. He then understood he was being kidnapped. &ldquo;I saw them coming toward me, I wet my pants.&rdquo;
Wenkert continued to explain the treatment he faced by the Hamas group and said that the captors told him he would be released in a day or two afterward the first ceasefire-hostage deal. However, the ceasefire ended, and he was transferred to a one-square-metre cell.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-confirms-multiple-meetings-with-us-on-gaza-ceasefire-deal-8836747">Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal</a>
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World: "Every deal that fell through would bring up a lot of frustration, rage and anger,” Wenkert highlighted the painful ordeal of hostages in an interview with Channel 12 news.

Freed Israeli hostage Omer Wenkert said on Wednesday (March 12) that he always 'knew' when Israel-Hamas peace talks were not on track and the ceasefire between them had fallen through, or a senior Hamas operative was killed, because the Palestinian militant group would take it out on him. Wenkert said he could understand what was happening, although all the hostages were cut off from the outside world during their hundreds of days of captivity. "Every deal that fell through would bring up a lot of frustration, rage, and anger,” Wenkert said, highlighting the painful ordeal of hostages in an interview with Channel 12 news. Also read: Hamas to hand over bodies of four slain Israeli hostages 'tonight' without public ceremony, confirms Netanyahu “Not to mention when one of their fathers was killed, or their families, or when their senior officials were assassinated. You feel it. You know exactly what happened," he said. He further explained that in such cases, Hamas militants used to beat them, spat on them, and forced them to do strenuous physical exercise. “I was very weak physically,” he said, adding that his captors’ goal was “humiliation.” Also read: Trump says direct talks with Hamas helping Israel: 'We’re talking about Israeli hostages' 'I wet my pants' Wenkert, in an interview, shared his day-by-day timeline in captivity, starting with the day he was taken hostage while he was driving down to the Nova music festival with his best friend Kim Damti. Wenkert initially thought that “there was a group of three or four terrorists, and in a moment the IDF will come and take them out. You don’t consider the possibility they will reach Re’im; it’s almost five kilometres from the border. And then the shooting started.” “What I remember is that the last time I saw on my watch was 7:29 a.m. and the same second I read that, someone says, ‘Get in, get in. There are terrorists.’ I hear, ‘Allahu Akbar,’ a grenade strike inside the shelter and everyone gets down. Explosion," he added. Also read: 'Continues to renege'; Hamas accuses Israel of backtracking on Gaza truce deal Wenkert said one of the terrorists told him he would not shoot him. He then understood he was being kidnapped. “I saw them coming toward me, I wet my pants.” Wenkert continued to explain the treatment he faced by the Hamas group and said that the captors told him he would be released in a day or two afterward the first ceasefire-hostage deal. However, the ceasefire ended, and he was transferred to a one-square-metre cell. Also read: Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal (With inputs from agencies)

'Beaten, spat on, held in a sq metre cell': Hostage's painful ordeal reveals 'he knew' when Gaza truce failed

A senior Hamas official said that a fresh round of Gaza ceasefire talks began on Tuesday in the Qatari capital Doha, with the Palestinian movement approaching the negotiations "positively and responsibly". Watch this report for more details!

Gaza ceasefire talks have begun in doha: Hamas

Gaza truce talks have begun in doha: Hamas

Hamas official says Gaza ceasefire talks have begun in Doha

An Israeli delegation is all set to reach Doha for crucial talks on extending the fragile ceasefire deal in Gaza. US Special Envoy for West Asia, Steve Witkoff is also expected to reach Qatar's capital after a brief stopover in Saudi Arabia ahead of the talks. Watch in for more details!

Rights groups call on Israel to restore Gaza electricity

Israel-Gaza ceasefire talks: Negotiators head to Qatar for hostage talks

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that hostage envoy Adam Boehler&rsquo;s direct talks with senior Hamas officials about the release of hostages in Gaza was a &ldquo;one-off situation&rdquo; and as of now &ldquo;hasn&rsquo;t borne fruit.&rdquo;
&ldquo;That was a one-off situation in which our special envoy for hostages, whose job it is to get people released, had an opportunity to talk directly to someone who has control over these people and was given permission and encouraged to do so. He did so,&rdquo; Rubio told reporters en route to Saudi Arabia.
&ldquo;As of now, it hasn&rsquo;t borne fruit. Doesn&rsquo;t mean he was wrong to try, but our primary vehicle for negotiations on this front will continue to be Mr. Witkoff and the work he&rsquo;s doing through Qatar,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>Israel 'held talks' with White House over hostage envoy's TV interview</h2>
Senior Israeli officials were "surprised" to hear US hostage envoy Adam Boehler's remarks, in which he asserted that the United States is not &ldquo;an agent of Israel,&rdquo; The Times of Israel reported, citing an Israeli source.
In the wake of the interview, Israeli officials reportedly "held discussions" with White House officials.
Boehler, on Sunday, defended his direct talks with Hamas officials in an interview with CNN, which invited intense criticism from Israel.
He asserted that the US was "not an agent of Israel. We have specific interests at play.&rdquo;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-confirms-multiple-meetings-with-us-on-gaza-ceasefire-deal-8836747">Also read: Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal</a>
<h2>'Helpful meeting'</h2>
Boehler said that he was confident a deal could be reached "within weeks" to free all hostages held by the Palestinian militant group.
"I think it was a very helpful meeting. It was very helpful to hear some back and forth," Boehler said in an interview on CNN's "State of the Union."
<h2>Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US</h2>
The political adviser to the Hamas chief, Taher Al-Nono, confirmed that multiple meetings occurred between Hamas leaders and US hostage affairs envoy Adam Boehler, according to news agency Reuters.
Nono said that the talks took place in the Qatari capital over the past week and were centred around the release of an American-Israeli dual national, who was held hostage by the Palestinian militant group in war-torn Gaza.
"Several meetings have already taken place in Doha, focusing on releasing one of the dual-nationality prisoners. We have dealt positively and flexibly, in a way that serves the interests of the Palestinian people," Nono said.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World news: Senior Israeli officials were "surprised" to hear US hostage envoy Adam Boehler's remarks, in which he asserted that the United States is not “an agent of Israel,” The Times of Israel reported, citing an Israeli source.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that hostage envoy Adam Boehler’s direct talks with senior Hamas officials about the release of hostages in Gaza was a “one-off situation” and as of now “hasn’t borne fruit.” “That was a one-off situation in which our special envoy for hostages, whose job it is to get people released, had an opportunity to talk directly to someone who has control over these people and was given permission and encouraged to do so. He did so,” Rubio told reporters en route to Saudi Arabia. “As of now, it hasn’t borne fruit. Doesn’t mean he was wrong to try, but our primary vehicle for negotiations on this front will continue to be Mr. Witkoff and the work he’s doing through Qatar,” he added. Israel 'held talks' with White House over hostage envoy's TV interview Senior Israeli officials were "surprised" to hear US hostage envoy Adam Boehler's remarks, in which he asserted that the United States is not “an agent of Israel,” The Times of Israel reported, citing an Israeli source. In the wake of the interview, Israeli officials reportedly "held discussions" with White House officials. Boehler, on Sunday, defended his direct talks with Hamas officials in an interview with CNN, which invited intense criticism from Israel. He asserted that the US was "not an agent of Israel. We have specific interests at play.” Also read: Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal 'Helpful meeting' Boehler said that he was confident a deal could be reached "within weeks" to free all hostages held by the Palestinian militant group. "I think it was a very helpful meeting. It was very helpful to hear some back and forth," Boehler said in an interview on CNN's "State of the Union." Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US The political adviser to the Hamas chief, Taher Al-Nono, confirmed that multiple meetings occurred between Hamas leaders and US hostage affairs envoy Adam Boehler, according to news agency Reuters. Nono said that the talks took place in the Qatari capital over the past week and were centred around the release of an American-Israeli dual national, who was held hostage by the Palestinian militant group in war-torn Gaza. "Several meetings have already taken place in Doha, focusing on releasing one of the dual-nationality prisoners. We have dealt positively and flexibly, in a way that serves the interests of the Palestinian people," Nono said. (With inputs from agencies)

Rubio says US hostage envoy’s direct meeting with Hamas ‘hasn’t borne fruit’

#Gravitas The United States is rolling out a new AI-driven crackdown on foreign nationals who show support for Palestinian armed group Hamas, or any designated terrorist organizations.

Us uses AI to deny visas to pro-Palestinians

Hamas, on Monday (Mar 10), accused Israel of backtracking on a truce deal and refusing to go forward with the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, as Israeli negotiators were scheduled to discuss a potential extension in Qatar.
"The (Israeli) occupation continues to renege on the agreement and refuses to commence the second phase, exposing its intentions of evasion and stalling," the Palestinian militant group said in a statement.
Hamas, on Monday, said that it was displaying &ldquo;flexibility&rdquo; in Gaza ceasefire deal talks with its mediators as it awaits results of the negotiations by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States with Israel.
&ldquo;We dealt flexibly with the efforts made by mediators and [US President Donald] Trump&rsquo;s envoy, and we await the results of the upcoming negotiations and oblige [Israel] to agree and go to the second phase,&rdquo; the Palestinian militant group said, according to The Times of Israel.
Hamas said that the negotiations are centred around ending the war, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, and reconstruction of the besieged Palestinian enclave.
Israel, on Monday, will dispatch its delegation to Doha, as the fresh round of talks is set to focus on extending the ceasefire in Gaza.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-cuts-electricity-supply-to-gaza-as-it-looks-to-pile-pressure-on-hamas-will-use-all-tools-to-bring-back-hostages-8837428">Also read: Israel cuts electricity supply to Gaza, says &lsquo;will use all tools to bring back hostages&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Israel cuts electricity supply to Gaza</h2>
Israel's Energy Minister Eli Cohen, on Sunday (Mar 9), said that he had instructed the Israel Electric Corporation to immediately cut off the supply of electricity to Gaza.
The move came a week after Israel blocked aid into the besieged Palestinian enclave.
"I have just signed the order to stop supplying electricity immediately to the Gaza Strip," Cohen said in a video statement.
"We will use all the tools at our disposal to bring back the hostages and ensure that Hamas is no longer in Gaza the day after" the war, he added.
<h2>Israel blocks aid flow into Gaza</h2>
Israel blocked aid from entering Gaza on Sunday (Mar 2), as the initial six-week phase of the ceasefire in the region came to an end.
The ceasefire had enabled the entry of vital items like food, shelter, and medical assistance after over 15 months of fighting.
The Palestinian militant group handed over 25 living hostages, under the first phase of the ceasefire deal, and eight bodies in exchange for the release of about 1,800 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.
Following Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, 251 people were taken captive, out of which 58 still remain in Gaza.&nbsp;
The Israeli military confirmed that at least 34 of these captives are dead.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Israel, on Monday, will dispatch its delegation to Doha, as the fresh round of talks is set to focus on extending the ceasefire in Gaza.

Hamas, on Monday (Mar 10), accused Israel of backtracking on a truce deal and refusing to go forward with the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, as Israeli negotiators were scheduled to discuss a potential extension in Qatar. "The (Israeli) occupation continues to renege on the agreement and refuses to commence the second phase, exposing its intentions of evasion and stalling," the Palestinian militant group said in a statement. Hamas, on Monday, said that it was displaying “flexibility” in Gaza ceasefire deal talks with its mediators as it awaits results of the negotiations by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States with Israel. “We dealt flexibly with the efforts made by mediators and [US President Donald] Trump’s envoy, and we await the results of the upcoming negotiations and oblige [Israel] to agree and go to the second phase,” the Palestinian militant group said, according to The Times of Israel. Hamas said that the negotiations are centred around ending the war, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, and reconstruction of the besieged Palestinian enclave. Israel, on Monday, will dispatch its delegation to Doha, as the fresh round of talks is set to focus on extending the ceasefire in Gaza. Also read: Israel cuts electricity supply to Gaza, says ‘will use all tools to bring back hostages’ Israel cuts electricity supply to Gaza Israel's Energy Minister Eli Cohen, on Sunday (Mar 9), said that he had instructed the Israel Electric Corporation to immediately cut off the supply of electricity to Gaza. The move came a week after Israel blocked aid into the besieged Palestinian enclave. "I have just signed the order to stop supplying electricity immediately to the Gaza Strip," Cohen said in a video statement. "We will use all the tools at our disposal to bring back the hostages and ensure that Hamas is no longer in Gaza the day after" the war, he added. Israel blocks aid flow into Gaza Israel blocked aid from entering Gaza on Sunday (Mar 2), as the initial six-week phase of the ceasefire in the region came to an end. The ceasefire had enabled the entry of vital items like food, shelter, and medical assistance after over 15 months of fighting. The Palestinian militant group handed over 25 living hostages, under the first phase of the ceasefire deal, and eight bodies in exchange for the release of about 1,800 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. Following Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, 251 people were taken captive, out of which 58 still remain in Gaza. The Israeli military confirmed that at least 34 of these captives are dead. (With inputs from agencies)

'Continues to renege'; Hamas accuses Israel of backtracking on Gaza truce deal

A potential ceasefire in Gaza and a hostage deal could be reached within weeks, according to US envoy Adam Boehler. The US is negotiating the release of 21-year-old Edan Alexander, a US-Israeli dual national, along with other remaining hostages. Meanwhile, Israel has cut off electricity supply to Gaza as tensions continue.

Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal possible within weeks: US envoy

Senior Israeli officials were surprised to hear US hostage envoy Adam Boehler's remarks, in which he asserted that the United States is not &ldquo;an agent of Israel,&rdquo;, The Times of Israel reported, citing an Israeli source.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re the United States. We&rsquo;re not an agent of Israel,&rdquo; Boehler said.
Boehler, in an interview with CNN, defended his direct talks with Hamas officials after the revelation ignited an uneasy conversation between him and Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer.
&ldquo;I understand the consternation and the concern. I wasn&rsquo;t upset,&rdquo; he said, sharing details about his dialogue with Dermer.
&ldquo;At the same time, we&rsquo;re the United States. We&rsquo;re not an agent of Israel. We have specific interests at play,&rdquo; he added.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-confirms-multiple-meetings-with-us-on-gaza-ceasefire-deal-8836747">Also read: Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal</a>
<h2>'Helpful meeting'</h2>
Boehler said that he was confident a deal could be reached "within weeks" to free all hostages held by the Palestinian militant group.
"I think it was a very helpful meeting. It was very helpful to hear some back and forth," Boehler said in an interview on CNN's "State of the Union."
He then said that he understood the concerns expressed by Dermer about his direct talks with Hamas but ensured that the talks emphasised on a clear goal.
"We're the United States. We're not an agent of Israel," Boehler said. "We have specific interests at play, and we did communicate back and forth."
"What I wanted to do is jump start some negotiations that were in a very fragile place. And I wanted to say to Hamas, what is the end game that you want here?"
<h2>'Nice guys'</h2>
Boehler confirmed in the interview that US President Donald Trump signed off on his talks with Hamas ahead of time.
&ldquo;I spoke with Ron, and I&rsquo;m sympathetic. He has someone that he doesn&rsquo;t know well, making direct contact with Hamas," he said.&nbsp;
"Maybe I would see them and say, &lsquo;Look, they don&rsquo;t have horns growing out of their head. They&rsquo;re actually guys like us. They&rsquo;re pretty nice guys&rsquo;,&rdquo; the US envoy added.
<h2>Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US</h2>
The political adviser to the Hamas chief, Taher Al-Nono, confirmed that multiple meetings occurred between Hamas leaders and US hostage affairs envoy Adam Boehler, according to news agency Reuters.
Nono said that the talks took place in the Qatari capital over the past week and were centred around the release of an American-Israeli dual national, who was held hostage by the Palestinian militant group in war-torn Gaza.
"Several meetings have already taken place in Doha, focusing on releasing one of the dual-nationality prisoners. We have dealt positively and flexibly, in a way that serves the interests of the Palestinian people," Nono said.
The two sides also discussed how to see through the implementation of the phased agreement aimed at ending the Israel-Hamas war.
"We informed the American delegation that we don't oppose the release of the prisoner within the framework of these talks," Nono told Reuters.
Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff told reporters at the White House last week that gaining the release of 21-year-old Edan Alexander from New Jersey, who is believed to be the last living American hostage held by Hamas in Gaza, is the United States' "top priority".
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World news: The political adviser to the Hamas chief, Taher Al-Nono, confirmed that multiple meetings occurred between Hamas leaders and US hostage affairs envoy Adam Boehler, according to news agency Reuters.

Senior Israeli officials were surprised to hear US hostage envoy Adam Boehler's remarks, in which he asserted that the United States is not “an agent of Israel,”, The Times of Israel reported, citing an Israeli source. “We’re the United States. We’re not an agent of Israel,” Boehler said. Boehler, in an interview with CNN, defended his direct talks with Hamas officials after the revelation ignited an uneasy conversation between him and Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer. “I understand the consternation and the concern. I wasn’t upset,” he said, sharing details about his dialogue with Dermer. “At the same time, we’re the United States. We’re not an agent of Israel. We have specific interests at play,” he added. Also read: Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal 'Helpful meeting' Boehler said that he was confident a deal could be reached "within weeks" to free all hostages held by the Palestinian militant group. "I think it was a very helpful meeting. It was very helpful to hear some back and forth," Boehler said in an interview on CNN's "State of the Union." He then said that he understood the concerns expressed by Dermer about his direct talks with Hamas but ensured that the talks emphasised on a clear goal. "We're the United States. We're not an agent of Israel," Boehler said. "We have specific interests at play, and we did communicate back and forth." "What I wanted to do is jump start some negotiations that were in a very fragile place. And I wanted to say to Hamas, what is the end game that you want here?" 'Nice guys' Boehler confirmed in the interview that US President Donald Trump signed off on his talks with Hamas ahead of time. “I spoke with Ron, and I’m sympathetic. He has someone that he doesn’t know well, making direct contact with Hamas," he said. "Maybe I would see them and say, ‘Look, they don’t have horns growing out of their head. They’re actually guys like us. They’re pretty nice guys’,” the US envoy added. Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US The political adviser to the Hamas chief, Taher Al-Nono, confirmed that multiple meetings occurred between Hamas leaders and US hostage affairs envoy Adam Boehler, according to news agency Reuters. Nono said that the talks took place in the Qatari capital over the past week and were centred around the release of an American-Israeli dual national, who was held hostage by the Palestinian militant group in war-torn Gaza. "Several meetings have already taken place in Doha, focusing on releasing one of the dual-nationality prisoners. We have dealt positively and flexibly, in a way that serves the interests of the Palestinian people," Nono said. The two sides also discussed how to see through the implementation of the phased agreement aimed at ending the Israel-Hamas war. "We informed the American delegation that we don't oppose the release of the prisoner within the framework of these talks," Nono told Reuters. Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff told reporters at the White House last week that gaining the release of 21-year-old Edan Alexander from New Jersey, who is believed to be the last living American hostage held by Hamas in Gaza, is the United States' "top priority". (With inputs from agencies)

‘Hamas militants are pretty nice guys’: US ‘surprises’ Israel after envoy says Washington working for itself

The Israeli military confirmed it carried out an airstrike targeting militants in Gaza ahead of the ceasefire negotiation.
In other news, the Trump administration is in talks with Moscow for allowing Russian diplomats back into the United States.
Meanwhile, Hamas confirmed that multiple meetings happened with the Palestinian militant group's leaders and US hostage affairs envoy Adam Boehler.
Click on the headlines for more
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&nbsp;

Stay ahead with our roundup of the top world stories. From breaking news to in-depth reports, get a comprehensive view of global happenings.

The Israeli military confirmed it carried out an airstrike targeting militants in Gaza ahead of the ceasefire negotiation. In other news, the Trump administration is in talks with Moscow for allowing Russian diplomats back into the United States. Meanwhile, Hamas confirmed that multiple meetings happened with the Palestinian militant group's leaders and US hostage affairs envoy Adam Boehler. Click on the headlines for more ‘For attempting to plant explosive device’: Israeli strike kills two in Gaza ahead of ceasefire negotiation The Israeli military has confirmed it carried out an airstrike on Sunday (March 9), targeting militants who were attempting to plant an explosive device in northern Gaza. 'Rubbing hands with glee': Trump's Russia reset raises espionage risk as US considers allowing diplomats back in The Trump administration is in discussions with Moscow about allowing Russian diplomats back into the United States, potentially reversing years of tit-for-tat expulsions. Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal The political advisor to the Hamas chief, Taher Al-Nono, confirmed that multiple meetings occurred between Hamas leaders and US hostage affairs envoy Adam Boehler, according to news agency Reuters. Elon Musk pushes for US to exit NATO; 'Doesn’t make sense...' Elon Musk has pressed for the United States' withdrawal from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), questioning the logic of America shouldering the cost of Europe's defence. ‘My Starlink is backbone of Ukrainian army’: Elon Musk warns Kyiv would collapse if he ‘turned it off’ Elon Musk, who co-chairs the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), issued a warning on Sunday (Mar 9) that the frontline of Ukraine's defence system will collapse if he shuts down his Starlink satellite internet system. Liars in Trump’s immigration department? DHS performs polygraph tests on staff to ‘prosecute’ raid ‘leaks’ The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under the Donald Trump administration is reportedly conducting polygraph tests on its employees to uncover leaks about immigration enforcement operations. India strongly condemns ‘despicable act’ of Hindu temple vandalisation in California India on Sunday (Mar 9) strongly condemned the recent vandalising of a Hindu temple in the US, calling for local authorities to take action in the matter. ‘Do not travel’: US warns citizens against travelling to Pakistan’s key areas over ‘increased risk’ The United States has issued an advisory on Friday (Mar 7), warning its citizens against travel to Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, provinces in Pakistan. The travel advisory also cautioned on travel to the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict. When Amanda Seyfried had an embarassing wardrobe malfunction and her 'bo*** were just out' Amanda Seyfried will never forget the Crtics Choice Awards 2023 when she had the most “embarrassing” episode of wardrobe malfunction and that too in front of Glen Powell. IND vs NZ Champions Trophy: Rohit Sharma completes first-ever fifty in ICC finals Indian captain Rohit Sharma completed his fifty in the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in Dubai. Playing his 11th ICC final across formats, Rohit’s previous best was 47 against Australia in the CWC 2023 final; he surpassed it and hit his first ICC final fifty. The right-handed opener took the Kiwi bowlers to the cleaners at the start, smashing them for fours and sixes for fun.

Top 10 world news: Israel conducts strikes in Gaza; Trump considers allowing Russian diplomats in US, and more

The political advisor to the Hamas chief, Taher Al-Nono, confirmed that multiple meetings occurred between Hamas leaders and US hostage affairs envoy Adam Boehler, according to news agency Reuters.
Nono said that the talks took place in the Qatari capital over the past week and were centred around the release of an American-Israeli dual national, who was held hostage by the Palestinian militant group in war-torn Gaza.
"Several meetings have already taken place in Doha, focusing on releasing one of the dual-nationality prisoners. We have dealt positively and flexibly, in a way that serves the interests of the Palestinian people," Nono said.
The two sides also discussed how to see through the implementation of the phased agreement aimed at ending the Israel-Hamas war.
"We informed the American delegation that we don't oppose the release of the prisoner within the framework of these talks," Nono told Reuters.
Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff told reporters at the White House last week that gaining the release of 21-year-old Edan Alexander from New Jersey, who is believed to be the last living American hostage held by Hamas in Gaza, is the United States' "top priority".
Alexander served as a soldier with the Israeli military.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mossad-chief-calls-pager-operation-turning-point-in-fighting-against-hezbollah-8756820">Also read: Mossad chief calls pager operation &lsquo;turning point&rsquo; in fight against Hezbollah</a>
<h2>Direct talks</h2>
The talks between the US hostage envoy Boehler and Hamas broke the decade-long diplomatic code by Washington that bars negotiating with the groups that the US labels as terrorist organisations.
Nono hailed what he described as an "important role" played by Witkoff in reaching the January 19 ceasefire agreement that halted the fighting in Gaza.
"We hope that he (Witkoff) will work to succeed in the negotiation of the second phase," he said.
<h2>Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against Hamas</h2>
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (Mar 8) thanked US President Donald Trump for supporting Israel against Hamas.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m81jf623-w2ldq1vi-3a3yips5">
Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists. <a href="https://t.co/n49QOk3zsH">https://t.co/n49QOk3zsH</a>
&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1898412767230497061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists," the Israeli PM wrote in a post on X.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World: The talks between the US hostage envoy Boehler and Hamas broke the decade-long diplomatic code by Washington that bars negotiating with the groups that the US labels as terrorist organisations.

The political advisor to the Hamas chief, Taher Al-Nono, confirmed that multiple meetings occurred between Hamas leaders and US hostage affairs envoy Adam Boehler, according to news agency Reuters. Nono said that the talks took place in the Qatari capital over the past week and were centred around the release of an American-Israeli dual national, who was held hostage by the Palestinian militant group in war-torn Gaza. "Several meetings have already taken place in Doha, focusing on releasing one of the dual-nationality prisoners. We have dealt positively and flexibly, in a way that serves the interests of the Palestinian people," Nono said. The two sides also discussed how to see through the implementation of the phased agreement aimed at ending the Israel-Hamas war. "We informed the American delegation that we don't oppose the release of the prisoner within the framework of these talks," Nono told Reuters. Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff told reporters at the White House last week that gaining the release of 21-year-old Edan Alexander from New Jersey, who is believed to be the last living American hostage held by Hamas in Gaza, is the United States' "top priority". Alexander served as a soldier with the Israeli military. Also read: Mossad chief calls pager operation ‘turning point’ in fight against Hezbollah Direct talks The talks between the US hostage envoy Boehler and Hamas broke the decade-long diplomatic code by Washington that bars negotiating with the groups that the US labels as terrorist organisations. Nono hailed what he described as an "important role" played by Witkoff in reaching the January 19 ceasefire agreement that halted the fighting in Gaza. "We hope that he (Witkoff) will work to succeed in the negotiation of the second phase," he said. Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against Hamas Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (Mar 8) thanked US President Donald Trump for supporting Israel against Hamas. Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists. https://t.co/n49QOk3zsH — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) March 8, 2025 "Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists," the Israeli PM wrote in a post on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal

It's been over a week since the impasse over the extension of the ceasefire in Gaza, and now Prime Minister Netanyahu's office said that Israel will send a delegation to Qatar's Doha on Monday to advance ceasefire negotiations. Watch in for more details!

Gaza ceasefire talks: Israeli delegation to advance ceasefire talks in Qatar's Doha

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Israel and Hamas are moving forward with ceasefire negotiations as Israeli delegations head to Doha for discussions. Hamas has indicated "positive" signs, with reports suggesting a possible truce extension during Ramzan. Meanwhile, families of hostages fear an imminent resumption of war if talks fail.

Israel and Hamas show signs of progress in ceasefire talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (March 8) thanked US President Donald Trump for supporting Israel against Hamas.&nbsp;
This comes after Palestinian militant group Hamas said that they held direct talks with a US envoy on freeing hostages held in Gaza. While Israel said that they were unaware of progress in talks.&nbsp;
However, on Saturday, Israeli PM Netanyahu took to X, saying in a post, "Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-50-freed-israeli-hostages-urge-netanyahu-to-implement-gaza-deal-in-full-8833789">Over 50 freed Israeli hostages urge Netanyahu to implement Gaza deal &lsquo;in full&rsquo;</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists. <a href="https://t.co/n49QOk3zsH">https://t.co/n49QOk3zsH</a>
&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1898412767230497061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2025</a>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</blockquote>
Netanyahu, in his thank-you post to Trump, reshared a post by Trump in which he again warned Hamas that if it doesn't free the hostages it is holding in Gaza, "there will be hell to pay later".&nbsp;
Trump also shared photos of his White House meeting with eight released Israeli hostages.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahus-key-confidant-lashed-out-at-us-envoy-for-holding-direct-talks-with-hamas-8832212">Netanyahu's key confidant 'lashed out' at US envoy for holding 'direct talks' with Hamas</a>
On Friday, Israel Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Netanyahu's top confidant "lashed out" at US hostage envoy Adam Boehler after Israel learned that Trump aide held a meeting with a senior Hamas delegation to discuss the release of American hostages from Gaza.
Trump aide held an unprecedented meeting in Doha with a senior Hamas delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya to discuss the potential release of American hostages from Gaza, a Western official told The Times of Israel.
Dermer lashed out at Boehler, during a phone call held on Tuesday, for discussing the number of Palestinian prisoners Israel would release in exchange for the five American hostages without Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's consent, the official said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-negotiations-with-hamas-helping-israel-because-were-talking-about-israeli-hostages-8829353">Trump says direct talks with Hamas helping Israel: 'We&rsquo;re talking about Israeli hostages'</a>&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Israeli PM Netanyahu took to X, "Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (March 8) thanked US President Donald Trump for supporting Israel against Hamas. This comes after Palestinian militant group Hamas said that they held direct talks with a US envoy on freeing hostages held in Gaza. While Israel said that they were unaware of progress in talks. However, on Saturday, Israeli PM Netanyahu took to X, saying in a post, "Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists." Also read: Over 50 freed Israeli hostages urge Netanyahu to implement Gaza deal ‘in full’ Thank you President Trump for once again boldly supporting Israel in our just war against the monstrous Hamas terrorists. https://t.co/n49QOk3zsH — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) March 8, 2025 Netanyahu, in his thank-you post to Trump, reshared a post by Trump in which he again warned Hamas that if it doesn't free the hostages it is holding in Gaza, "there will be hell to pay later". Trump also shared photos of his White House meeting with eight released Israeli hostages. Also read: Netanyahu's key confidant 'lashed out' at US envoy for holding 'direct talks' with Hamas On Friday, Israel Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Netanyahu's top confidant "lashed out" at US hostage envoy Adam Boehler after Israel learned that Trump aide held a meeting with a senior Hamas delegation to discuss the release of American hostages from Gaza. Trump aide held an unprecedented meeting in Doha with a senior Hamas delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya to discuss the potential release of American hostages from Gaza, a Western official told The Times of Israel. Dermer lashed out at Boehler, during a phone call held on Tuesday, for discussing the number of Palestinian prisoners Israel would release in exchange for the five American hostages without Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's consent, the official said. Also read: Trump says direct talks with Hamas helping Israel: 'We’re talking about Israeli hostages' (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu thanks Trump for backing Israel against ‘monstrous’ Hamas after US prez warns ‘hell to pay’

The Israeli government has strongly objected to the U.S. engaging in direct talks with Hamas, with top officials lashing out at Washington. Meanwhile, Hamas has released a video showing Israeli hostage Matan Angrest alive, further escalating tensions. Additionally, the Houthis have warned Israel against blocking humanitarian aid.

Israel objects as US engages in talks with Hamas

Israel Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Netanyahu's top confidant "lashed out" at US hostage envoy Adam Boehler after Israel learned that Trump aide held a meeting with a senior Hamas delegation to discuss the release of American hostages from Gaza.
Trump aide held an unprecedented meeting in Doha with a senior Hamas delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya to discuss the potential release of American hostages from Gaza, a Western official told The Times of Israel.
Dermer lashed out at Boehler, during a phone call held on Tuesday, for discussing the number of Palestinian prisoners Israel would release in exchange for the five American hostages without Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's consent, the official said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alarming-trump-wanted-original-us-declaration-of-independence-as-oval-office-decoration-what-is-it-8831412">'Alarming': Trump wanted 'original' US Declaration of Independence as Oval Office&nbsp;decoration.&nbsp;What&nbsp;is&nbsp;it?</a>
However, the US hostage envoy tried to explain that the meeting was only an initial discussion with Hamas and that nothing would be finalised without Israel's approval, the Western official said.&nbsp;
Hours after the call, Boehler's meeting with Hayya was leaked to the media, in a move that the US believes Israel was behind it, according to the official.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-warns-hamas-of-unimaginable-consequences-if-they-fail-to-return-hostages-gaza-ceasefire-8775399">&lsquo;Might return to war&rsquo;: Netanyahu warns Hamas of &lsquo;unimaginable consequences&rsquo; if they don't return hostages</a>
Earlier in an attempt to defend American officials' direct negotiations with Hamas, President Donald Trump said the US is helping Israel in those discussions because "we&rsquo;re talking about Israeli hostages".
In a news conference, while signing multiple executive orders in the Oval Office, Trump said, &ldquo;We&rsquo;re not doing anything in terms of Hamas. We&rsquo;re not giving cash.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;You have to negotiate. There&rsquo;s a difference between negotiating and paying. We want to get these people out," the US President said, referring to Israeli hostages.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-hostages-likely-to-be-killed-hamas-warns-if-israel-continues-attack-us-offers-them-60-day-ceasefire-8829011">'Some hostages likely to be killed': Hamas warns if Israel continues attack in Gaza</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump aide held an unprecedented meeting in Doha with a senior Hamas delegation to discuss potential release of American hostages from Gaza.

Israel Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Netanyahu's top confidant "lashed out" at US hostage envoy Adam Boehler after Israel learned that Trump aide held a meeting with a senior Hamas delegation to discuss the release of American hostages from Gaza. Trump aide held an unprecedented meeting in Doha with a senior Hamas delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya to discuss the potential release of American hostages from Gaza, a Western official told The Times of Israel. Dermer lashed out at Boehler, during a phone call held on Tuesday, for discussing the number of Palestinian prisoners Israel would release in exchange for the five American hostages without Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's consent, the official said. Also read: 'Alarming': Trump wanted 'original' US Declaration of Independence as Oval Office decoration. What is it? However, the US hostage envoy tried to explain that the meeting was only an initial discussion with Hamas and that nothing would be finalised without Israel's approval, the Western official said. Hours after the call, Boehler's meeting with Hayya was leaked to the media, in a move that the US believes Israel was behind it, according to the official. Also read: ‘Might return to war’: Netanyahu warns Hamas of ‘unimaginable consequences’ if they don't return hostages Earlier in an attempt to defend American officials' direct negotiations with Hamas, President Donald Trump said the US is helping Israel in those discussions because "we’re talking about Israeli hostages". In a news conference, while signing multiple executive orders in the Oval Office, Trump said, “We’re not doing anything in terms of Hamas. We’re not giving cash.” “You have to negotiate. There’s a difference between negotiating and paying. We want to get these people out," the US President said, referring to Israeli hostages. Also read: 'Some hostages likely to be killed': Hamas warns if Israel continues attack in Gaza (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu's key confidant 'lashed out' at US envoy for holding 'direct talks' with Hamas

The United States and Hamas held direct talks with each other for the first time in their history, while U.S. President Donald Trump warned of ‘hell to pay’ should the Palestinian group not comply. Warch to know more!

Trump's fresh ultimatum to Hamas as US enters direct talks with Palestinian group

US is directly talking to hamas for the first time | proposes new ceasefire deal

The United States and Hamas held direct talks with each other for the first time in their history, while U.S. President Donald Trump warned of ‘hell to pay’ should the Palestinian group not comply.

Secret double deal: Talks with Hamas in private, as Trump thunders in public 2025

The US has offered Hamas a deal in which 10 living Israeli hostages would be released in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire. Watch this report for more details!

Israel warns Hamas: No hostage, no free meal

The Palestinian militant group Hamas warned that some hostages are 'likely to be killed' if Israeli military escalation against them continues, reported The Times of Israel.&nbsp;
Hamas spokesman Abu Obeida warned that Israeli threats of war and blockade will not secure the release of hostages.&nbsp;
He further claimed that the terror group is still committed to abiding by the Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal with Israel.&nbsp;
Currently, 59 Israeli hostages are still being held in the Gaza Strip after the first phase of the Gaza truce concluded. Moreover, at least 35 of these hostages have been confirmed dead by the IDF.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-reconstruction-plan-rejected-by-israel-and-us-but-backed-by-hamas-heres-all-you-need-to-know-8796605">Gaza reconstruction plan: Rejected by Israel and US but backed by Hamas, here's all you need to know</a>
<h2>US offers Hamas 60-day ceasefire&nbsp;</h2>
Meanwhile, the United States has offered Hamas a deal in which 10 living Israeli hostages would be released in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire, a Palestinian source told Sky News Arabia, The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Washington asked Hamas to release ten hostages&hellip; in exchange for extending the ceasefire for sixty days, starting negotiations on the second phase and the position of Israeli forces along the Philadelphi Corridor,&rdquo; as well as resuming the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, the source said.
However, the source did not mention when the offer was presented.&nbsp;
"Hamas is still considering its response to the American proposal," the source added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arab-league-summit-egypts-sisi-says-trump-can-bring-peace-as-leaders-meet-to-oppose-his-gaza-plan-8790469">Arab Summit: Egypt&rsquo;s Sisi says &lsquo;Trump can bring peace&rsquo; as leaders meet to oppose&nbsp;his&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;plan</a>
<h2>Israel may cut intelligence sharing with US&nbsp;</h2>
Israel is considering reducing intelligence sharing with the US due to the warming relationship between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, NBC reported citing sources.&nbsp;
However, an Israeli operation denied the report, saying that "cooperation between Israel and the United States on every level, including the sharing of crucial intelligence data, is as strong and solid as ever.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-holds-direct-talks-with-hamas-over-hostage-release-amid-trumps-you-are-dead-warning-8821204">US holds direct talks with Hamas over hostage release amid Trump's 'you are dead' warning</a>
Moreover, not just Israel, but, the UK, Australia Canada, New Zealand, and Saudi Arabia, are said to be considering changes to their intelligence sharing protocols.
These US allies have been fearing that the identity of important foreign assets could be revealed, thus jeopardising them, amid the US&rsquo;s reconciliation with Russia.
Discussions on the potential scaling back of intelligence sharing &ldquo;are already happening,&rdquo; but no decisions have been made thus far, NBC reported citing anonymous sources.
The UK and Canada also rejected the report.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-warns-hamas-of-unimaginable-consequences-if-they-fail-to-return-hostages-gaza-ceasefire-8775399">&lsquo;Might return to war&rsquo;: Netanyahu warns Hamas of &lsquo;unimaginable consequences&rsquo; if they don't return hostages</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: US offered Hamas a deal in which 10 living Israeli hostages would be released in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire, a Palestinian source told Sky News Arabia.

The Palestinian militant group Hamas warned that some hostages are 'likely to be killed' if Israeli military escalation against them continues, reported The Times of Israel. Hamas spokesman Abu Obeida warned that Israeli threats of war and blockade will not secure the release of hostages. He further claimed that the terror group is still committed to abiding by the Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal with Israel. Currently, 59 Israeli hostages are still being held in the Gaza Strip after the first phase of the Gaza truce concluded. Moreover, at least 35 of these hostages have been confirmed dead by the IDF. Also read: Gaza reconstruction plan: Rejected by Israel and US but backed by Hamas, here's all you need to know US offers Hamas 60-day ceasefire Meanwhile, the United States has offered Hamas a deal in which 10 living Israeli hostages would be released in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire, a Palestinian source told Sky News Arabia, The Times of Israel reported. “Washington asked Hamas to release ten hostages… in exchange for extending the ceasefire for sixty days, starting negotiations on the second phase and the position of Israeli forces along the Philadelphi Corridor,” as well as resuming the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, the source said. However, the source did not mention when the offer was presented. "Hamas is still considering its response to the American proposal," the source added. Also read: Arab Summit: Egypt’s Sisi says ‘Trump can bring peace’ as leaders meet to oppose his Gaza plan Israel may cut intelligence sharing with US Israel is considering reducing intelligence sharing with the US due to the warming relationship between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, NBC reported citing sources. However, an Israeli operation denied the report, saying that "cooperation between Israel and the United States on every level, including the sharing of crucial intelligence data, is as strong and solid as ever.” Also read: US holds direct talks with Hamas over hostage release amid Trump's 'you are dead' warning Moreover, not just Israel, but, the UK, Australia Canada, New Zealand, and Saudi Arabia, are said to be considering changes to their intelligence sharing protocols. These US allies have been fearing that the identity of important foreign assets could be revealed, thus jeopardising them, amid the US’s reconciliation with Russia. Discussions on the potential scaling back of intelligence sharing “are already happening,” but no decisions have been made thus far, NBC reported citing anonymous sources. The UK and Canada also rejected the report. Also read: ‘Might return to war’: Netanyahu warns Hamas of ‘unimaginable consequences’ if they don't return hostages (With inputs from agencies)

'Some hostages likely to be killed': Hamas warns if Israel continues attack in Gaza

Hamas stated that Donald Trump's threats would encourage Israel to disregard the fragile ceasefire, after the US president said that unless hostages are freed, the people of Gaza would be "dead." Watch in for more detais!

Israel-Hamas war: US president gives fresh ultimatum to Hamas to release hostages

Israeli and international leaders have been reacting to US President Donald Trump's warning to Hamas, expressing support for Trump's readiness to take action against the Palestinian militant group.&nbsp;
David Friedman, who served as an envoy to Israel said that he loves the US president, calling him the "right person".
&ldquo;I love this guy. The right message by the right person at the right time!," Friedman said.&nbsp;
<h2>What was Trump's ultimatum?</h2>
After a White House meeting with six released Israeli hostages, Trump posted a stern warning to the terror group.&nbsp;
"Also, to the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD!," Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. He also threatened that there would be "hell to pay" if the hostages were not released.
"This is your last warning! For the leadership, now is the time to leave Gaza, while you still have a chance," Trump warned in his message.&nbsp;
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich thanked US President Trump for his commitment to Israel's security.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-us-holds-direct-talks-with-hamas-over-hostage-release-macron-proposes-french-nuclear-extension-and-more-8821458">Morning News Brief: US holds direct talks with Hamas over hostage release; Macron proposes French nuclear extension, and more</a>
"Thank you, Mr. President, for your commitment to Israel&rsquo;s security and the security of the entire free world and for your concern for the return of all our hostages to their homes," Smotrich said in a post on X.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, former US Middle East envoy Jason Greenblatt said that Trump's methods may be different for some but they get real results, "especially in the tough world we live in".&nbsp;
US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham shared a post on X, saying "This is why I believe President Trump is the right man at the right time to deal with the bad guys and bring peace to the world."
He expressed solidarity with Trump and said that this ultimatum should have been delivered to Hamas early on by the Biden Administration.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-holds-direct-talks-with-hamas-over-hostage-release-amid-trumps-you-are-dead-warning-8821204">US holds direct talks with Hamas over hostage release amid Trump's 'you are dead' warning</a>
"Mr. President: You are right to say it and It&rsquo;s imperative you do it if Hamas refuses," he stressed.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>, you have my complete and total support. This is why I believe President Trump is the right man at the right time to deal with the bad guys and bring peace to the world. This ultimatum should have been delivered to Hamas early on by the Biden&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/VsCjXJITnT">pic.twitter.com/VsCjXJITnT</a>
&mdash; Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LindseyGrahamSC/status/1897413743149015190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-reconstruction-plan-rejected-by-israel-and-us-but-backed-by-hamas-heres-all-you-need-to-know-8796605">Gaza reconstruction plan: Rejected by Israel and US but backed by Hamas, here's all you need to know</a>
Israel's former national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said that the government must embrace Trump's proposal and stop bypassing him from the left.&nbsp;
"Release all our hostages immediately, or absolute hell immediately," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/13-year-old-us-secret-service-agent-dj-daniel-gives-trump-a-big-hug-video-goes-viral-8821647">13-year-old US Secret Service agent, DJ Daniel gives Trump 'a big hug', video goes viral</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said, "This is why I believe President Trump is the right man at the right time to deal with the bad guys and bring peace to the world."

Israeli and international leaders have been reacting to US President Donald Trump's warning to Hamas, expressing support for Trump's readiness to take action against the Palestinian militant group. David Friedman, who served as an envoy to Israel said that he loves the US president, calling him the "right person". “I love this guy. The right message by the right person at the right time!," Friedman said. What was Trump's ultimatum? After a White House meeting with six released Israeli hostages, Trump posted a stern warning to the terror group. "Also, to the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD!," Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. He also threatened that there would be "hell to pay" if the hostages were not released. "This is your last warning! For the leadership, now is the time to leave Gaza, while you still have a chance," Trump warned in his message. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich thanked US President Trump for his commitment to Israel's security. Also read: Morning News Brief: US holds direct talks with Hamas over hostage release; Macron proposes French nuclear extension, and more "Thank you, Mr. President, for your commitment to Israel’s security and the security of the entire free world and for your concern for the return of all our hostages to their homes," Smotrich said in a post on X. Meanwhile, former US Middle East envoy Jason Greenblatt said that Trump's methods may be different for some but they get real results, "especially in the tough world we live in". US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham shared a post on X, saying "This is why I believe President Trump is the right man at the right time to deal with the bad guys and bring peace to the world." He expressed solidarity with Trump and said that this ultimatum should have been delivered to Hamas early on by the Biden Administration. Also read: US holds direct talks with Hamas over hostage release amid Trump's 'you are dead' warning "Mr. President: You are right to say it and It’s imperative you do it if Hamas refuses," he stressed. President @realDonaldTrump, you have my complete and total support. This is why I believe President Trump is the right man at the right time to deal with the bad guys and bring peace to the world. This ultimatum should have been delivered to Hamas early on by the Biden… pic.twitter.com/VsCjXJITnT — Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) March 5, 2025 Also read: Gaza reconstruction plan: Rejected by Israel and US but backed by Hamas, here's all you need to know Israel's former national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said that the government must embrace Trump's proposal and stop bypassing him from the left. "Release all our hostages immediately, or absolute hell immediately," he added. Also read: 13-year-old US Secret Service agent, DJ Daniel gives Trump 'a big hug', video goes viral (With inputs from agencies)

'Right man at the right time': World reacts after Trump's 'you are DEAD' warning to Hamas

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