Former captives who had been held in Gaza met with President Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday, where he listened to their accounts of captivity and reiterated his commitment to securing the release of remaining captives.

 

According to a statement from White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Trump “listened intently to the hostages’ heartbreaking stories.” The former captives, in turn, expressed gratitude for his efforts. “The hostages thanked President Trump for his steadfast efforts to bring all of the hostages home,” Leavitt added.

 

Read more: Hamas, US hold first direct talks since 1997: Axios

 

The delegation included Iair Horn, Omer Shem Tov, Eli Sharabi, Keith Siegel, Aviva Siegel, Naama Levy, Doron Steinbrecher, and Noa Argamani.

 

After the meeting, Trump reportedly issued a stern message to Hamas, declaring, “this is the final warning,” as reported by Ynet. His statement follows recent revelations about secret direct talks between his administration and Hamas, marking the first such communication between the US and the Palestinian group since 1997.

 

According to the New York Times, "Israel" became aware of these discussions through indirect channels. While the White House maintains that "Israel" was consulted regarding the talks, "Israeli" sources suggest they were informed in a different manner.

 

These discussions, led by Adam Buehler, Trump’s envoy for captives affairs, took place in Qatar but failed to produce an immediate breakthrough. However, sources indicate that “the parties left the door open.” Following the talks, Trump met with the former captives and issued his ultimatum to Hamas.

 

The Wall Street Journal reported that initial contact between the US and Hamas occurred a month ago in Doha, with Buehler requesting the release of American captives.

 

In response, Hamas freed American citizen Sagi Dekel Chen on Feb. 15. Though US law prohibits negotiations with designated terrorist organizations, and the United States officially classifies Hamas as one, an exception allows the President’s envoy for captives affairs to engage in discussions aimed at securing the release of American citizens.

 

"Israel" has responded with concern over Washington’s engagement with Hamas, raising questions about the implications of these talks given the close alignment between "Israeli" Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Trump.