Boehler withdraws nomination but continues hostage negotiations

Adam Boehler has withdrawn his nomination as special envoy for hostage affairs, the White House announced. He will continue to work on hostage negotiations as a "special government employee" without needing to divest from his healthcare firm. Boehler's decision follows criticism from Israeli officials over his private talks with Hamas. He previously stated that the U.S. is "not an agent of Israel" but later clarified his stance on Hamas, labeling it a terrorist organization. Negotiations between Israel and Hamas have seen some progress, with Hamas agreeing to release the last American hostage and the bodies of four deceased hostages. A second phase of the ceasefire agreement is now required for further hostages to be released.