Trump's special envoy said gaining the release of Edan Alexander, believed to be the last living American hostage held by Hamas, was a "top priority."

US hostage envoy Adam Boehler defended his direct talks with officials in the Hamas terror group, pushing back against private but intense criticism from Jerusalem, The Times of Israel reported. Also Read: Air India's Chicago-Delhi flight turns back after 10 hours in air due to toilet malfunction Some of Boehler's remarks on Sunday further annoyed senior Israeli officials,

Adam Boehler said on CNN negotiating with Hamas over release of American hostages is necessary despite the group's antisemitic ideology.