US hostage envoy Adam Boehler. AFP
Speaking to CNN, Adam Boehler - a Jewish American said he understood Israel's "consternation" that the US had held talks at all with the group, but said he had been seeking to jump-start the "fragile" negotiations.
"In the end, I think it was a very helpful meeting," he said, adding: "I think something could come together within weeks... I think there is a deal where they can get all of the prisoners out, not just the Americans."
Boehler suggested there was a chance of further talks with the militants, telling CNN: "You never know. You know, sometimes you're in the area, and you drop by."
Hamas took on October 7, 2023, 251 captives - including some Americans. An estimated 58 captives remain in Gaza.
Israel invaded Gaza, waging a genocidal war for more than 15 months and displacing much of the population, killing 48,458 Palestinians, the majority of whom are women and children. The UN considers these figures reliable.
The first phase of a truce revolving around the release of some captives ended earlier this month, and both sides are disputing when to move into the second phase, which aims at a more permanent peace.
Last week, US President Donald Trump threatened further destruction of Gaza if all remaining captives were not released, issuing what he called a "last warning" to Hamas leaders.
"I understand the consternation and the concern" on Israel's part at the talks, Boehler said, adding: "We're the United States. We're not an agent of Israel."
He described his feelings on sitting across from the militants.
"I think when you walk and you sit in front of somebody, and you know what they've done, it's hard not to think of it," he said.
He said it was important to identify with their humanity, but admitted, "It definitely feels a little odd knowing what they really are."
*This story has been edited by Ahram Online
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