Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer sharply criticized U.S. hostage envoy Adam Boehler during a tense phone call Tuesday after Israel learned of an unapproved U.S. meeting with Hamas in Doha. The Trump administration’s envoy had met with senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya to discuss the potential release of American hostages held in Gaza.
Dermer was furious that Boehler discussed a possible exchange involving Palestinian prisoners without prior approval from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Boehler reportedly assured Dermer that the talks were preliminary and that no decisions would be made without Israel’s consent.
Shortly after the call, news of Boehler’s meeting was leaked, with U.S. officials suspecting Israel was behind it, further straining trust between the two allies. The Biden administration had previously floated the idea of direct Hamas talks, but Netanyahu opposed any engagement without preconditions for Hamas.
The discussions focused on securing the release of American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander and retrieving the remains of four other dual citizens believed to have been killed. The broader talks also touched on a potential deal to free remaining hostages and end the war in Gaza.
While Israel has not openly condemned the U.S. for its direct negotiations with Hamas, Netanyahu’s office issued a firm statement emphasizing its stance. The situation underscores growing diplomatic tensions as efforts to resolve the hostage crisis continue.
