Adam Boehler, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s special envoy for hostage affairs, is visiting Israel this week amid ongoing negotiations to secure the release of the remaining Hamas captives in Gaza.
He will meet with Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar on Monday, Ynet reported on Saturday night.
His visit comes after a senior Israeli official told the Hebrew news site that “significant progress” has been made in hostage negotiation efforts, suggesting that Hamas could be willing to drop some of its war-long demands to reach an agreement. The official indicated that a deal could be reached within weeks.
Reports suggest that the terror group has given up its demand for a declaration to end the war and a full Israel Defense Forces withdrawal from Gaza. Hamas has also reportedly agreed to a phased ceasefire and is willing to compromise on the release of high-profile terrorists in Israeli prisons.
Boehler revealed to Israel Hayom last week that diplomatic efforts have intensified to secure a Gaza ceasefire deal before Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20, with Qatari mediators re-engaging in negotiations.
The envoy emphasized Trump’s unwavering commitment, stating, “The president said he wants the hostages, and he will get them.”
Speaking to Israel Hayom from Washington, Boehler outlined the scope of his mission. “My presidential mandate is clear: Secure the release of American hostages from these locations,” he said.
“I have a strong conviction that we will bring everyone home—both those alive and those who are not. The president’s insistence on achieving this before his inauguration has already catalyzed significant progress in negotiations,” he added.
