(Reuters) - Qatar-mediated negotiations between Israel and Hamas aimed at de-escalating fighting in Gaza continued on Saturday, a source briefed on the negotiations said, even as Israel intensified its assault on the enclave.
Talks have not broken down, but are taking place at a "much slower pace" than before the escalation from Friday evening, the source told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of negotiations.
Qatar has been conducting behind-the-scenes diplomacy for more than three weeks, speaking to Hamas officials and Israel to promote peace and secure the release of hostages.
Its mediation last week led to the release of two American hostages, a mother and daughter, and two elderly Israeli women.
Israel says 1,400 people, mostly civilians, were killed during the Islamist group's raid and 224 hostages were captured, many with foreign passports from 25 different countries.
Persons:
Israel, Gaza's, David Evans
Organizations:
Reuters, Dubai
Locations:
Qatar, Israel, Gaza, Doha