Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's close confidante and a US official held talks regarding the secret negotiation between the US and Hamas for the release of hostages. Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer is reported to have lashed out at the US hostage envoy Adam Boehler as Israel learnt about the meeting Trump's envoy had with Hamas representatives, led by Khalil al-Hayya in Doha, The Times of Israel reports.
Why did Netanyahu's confidante lash out at Trump's envoy?
Dermer lashed out at Boehler for discussing the number of Palestinian prisoners Israel would release in exchange for the five Israeli-American hostages still in Gaza without PM Netanyahu's consent, according to a report by Axios. Boehler, Trump's hostage envoy, tried to explain that the discussions with Hamas were merely initial talks, assuring the Israeli official that nothing would be finalised without Israel’s approval.
Moreover, the US has accused Israel of leaking Boehler’s meeting with Hayya to the media, ultimately decreasing trust between the sides, a Western official said.
The talks between Hamas and the US revolved around bringing home the bodies of four American hostages and Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old American hostage. It also included the number of Palestinian prisoners Israel would release in exchange for Alexander, which appears to be a contentious issue between both countries.
Israel cuts off food, fuel, medicine supplies to Gaza
Meanwhile, Israel has cut off food, fuel, medicine and other supplies to Gaza's 2 million people, making food prices soar
The aid freeze has imperiled the tenuous progress aid workers say they have made to stave off famine over the past six weeks during Phase 1 of the ceasefire deal Israel and Hamas agreed to in January After more than 16 months of war, Gaza's population is entirely dependent on trucked-in food and other aid.
Most are displaced from their homes, and many need shelter. Fuel is needed to keep hospitals, water pumps, bakeries and telecommunications — as well as trucks delivering aid — operating.
(With inputs from AP)
Watch video | Trump Warns Hamas, Issues Final Ultimatum For Hamas To Release Israel Hostages