Hamas has been in direct talks with U.S. hostage negotiator Adam Boehler regarding the release of an American-Israeli dual national held by the militant group in Gaza. The discussions have focused on implementing a phased agreement to end the Israel-Hamas conflict. Boehler has expressed optimism about the talks, stating that there is a chance to see some hostages home in the next few weeks.
The Trump administration has made the release of the American-Israeli hostage a top priority, along with the bodies of four deceased American-Israeli hostages, believing that these actions could lead to more captives being freed. The negotiations between Boehler and Hamas mark a departure from previous U.S. policy against negotiating with terrorist organizations.
Israel and Hamas have signaled their readiness to negotiate the next phase of the ceasefire, with mediators working to extend the 42-day truce that began in January. However, the ceasefire remains fragile, as evidenced by recent incidents of violence in Gaza.
In a related development, Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen instructed the Israel Electric Corporation not to sell electricity to Gaza as a means of pressure on Hamas to release hostages. This move would impact a wastewater treatment plant in Gaza but is unlikely to have an immediate effect as electricity supply to the region was already limited at the start of the conflict.
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