In a bold statement, Adam Boehler, the US Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs, has clarified that the United States is not acting as an agent of Israel. His remarks came in response to Israeli criticism over the US engaging in direct talks with Hamas, the Palestinian organization. Boehler emphasized that while the US understands Israel’s concerns, it has its own strategic interests to pursue.

Speaking in an interview with multiple US and Israeli media outlets on Sunday (March 9), Boehler addressed the backlash from Israeli officials regarding his meetings with Hamas leaders. He stated, “I understand Israel’s frustration, but the United States has its own interests to consider.”

Boehler revealed that he had discussed the matter with Ron Dermer, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s close aide and Strategic Affairs Minister. In an interview with CNN, Boehler said, “I spoke with Ron, and we are sympathetic to his concerns. But let’s be clear, Hamas members are not monsters. They are people, just like us, and some of them are quite reasonable.”

Referring to Dermer’s reaction, Boehler added, “He doesn’t know me, and there are significant risks involved in these discussions. Israel operates in a region where certain precedents can have far-reaching consequences, both positive and negative.”

Boehler further explained, “I understand Israel’s discomfort and anxiety. But it’s important to remember that we are the United States. We are not Israel’s agents. We have our own interests. We have communicated with Israel and are operating within certain boundaries.”

However, Boehler’s comments have sparked discontent among senior Israeli officials. In a reaction to The Times of Israel, they expressed surprise, stating, “We were taken aback when Boehler said the US is not Israel’s agent.”

Currently, the US is engaged in direct talks with Hamas alongside indirect negotiations mediated by Qatar and Egypt. The primary goal of these discussions is to secure the release of American citizens still held captive in Gaza.

Boehler expressed optimism about progress, stating, “We were not prepared to sit idle for two weeks. There is a real possibility that we may see some breakthroughs in the coming weeks, and hostages could return home.”

When asked by Israeli Channel 12 whether Hamas would eventually surrender its weapons and cease to play a role in Gaza’s political future, Boehler responded, “I believe it is possible.”

Boehler’s remarks and the US’s decision to engage directly with Hamas have stirred new tensions in the Middle East’s diplomatic landscape. Despite Israel’s strong criticism, the US remains steadfast in its commitment to securing the release of hostages through direct communication.

The situation highlights the complex dynamics of US-Israel relations and the challenges of navigating diplomacy in a region fraught with longstanding conflicts. Boehler’s statements underscore the US’s independent approach while balancing its alliance with Israel and its broader strategic goals in the Middle East.