According to various U.S. sources, extensive and continuing negotiations are taking place to rescue the captives abducted by Hamas along with other terror organizations to Gaza after the Oct. 7 attack on Israel.
Qatar continues negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
President Biden’s senior Mideast advisor, Brett McGurk, is traveling this week to the region to aid with the problematic hostage negotiations.
National media was informed by a U.S. official that McGurk and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan are among the few people participating in the sensitive negotiations.
Sullivan said on Sunday’s episode of “Face the Nation” that efforts were being made to secure the release of all hostages held by Hamas, including all Americans.
The White House claimed US President Joe Biden called Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani on Friday and highlighted the pressing need for the approximately 240 captives to be freed without further delay.
Two American officials informed media outlets that Hamas has not offered the list of hostages it possesses or may liberate as part of a deal, which is a major obstacle to discussions. Other terrorist organizations, including Islamic Jihad, have taken hostages.
On “Face the Nation,” Sullivan refused to comment on allegations that Israel will now entertain Hamas’ longtime desire to free Palestinian women and minors from Israeli captivity and exchange them for some of Hamas’ 240 captives.
A senior U.S. official informed the media that there is no agreement, and Israel’s President Isaac Herzog indicated on “Face the Nation” that his office could not corroborate the rumors. Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. are significantly engaged in mediating hostage discussions, according to Herzog.
U.S. and Qatari officials have prioritized civilian hostages, especially children and older adults. The Israeli military personnel thought to have been captured present additional challenges.
Hamas has freed just four captives, including two senior people and a mother and daughter. Telegram messages from Hamas-affiliated channels claimed the release was for “humanitarian reasons.”
