First in-person meeting between Trump’s hostage envoy, Boehler and Taliban in Kabul since takeover

Al-Ansari emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving global issues, citing it as a means to foster trust between parties and achieve positive outcomes. This sentiment was expressed in the context of Qatar’s active role in mediating negotiations between Israel and Hamas.

Although Boehler’s Senate confirmation is pending, he currently holds a position as a special government employee focusing on hostage negotiations. This appointment occurred following his withdrawal from the nomination as special envoy due to divestment requirements, as disclosed by White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly.

Boehler recently achieved the release of Glezmann, marking the second significant hostage liberation he has facilitated this month. The prior success was the return of Marc Fogel from Russia, subsequent to his arrest in August 2021.

President Donald Trump, left, welcomes Marc Fogel back to the United Stated after being released from Russian custody, at the White House on Feb. 11, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)

Boehler, who helped secure the Abraham Accords as a lead negotiator during the first Trump administration, turned heads following the revelation that he met with another terrorist organization earlier this month – Hamas.

The hostage envoy met directly with Hamas officials in an attempt to secure the release of the five American hostages still held in the Gaza Strip, including Edan Alexander, who is the only remaining American hostage still alive.