Officials with US President Joe Biden's administration have been calling on Israel to consider so-called “humanitarian pauses” that can allow for civilians in Gaza, including hostages, to exit and for aid to get in.
One source familiar with the discussions said the talks have centered on freeing hostages in exchange for prisoners being held by Israel.
Al-Ansari, the Qatari spokesperson, also said there have been active discussions about a “prisoner exchange” for the hostages.
The source added the negotiations also include getting Hamas to open the Rafah gates for dual nationals to leave Gaza.
“We are optimistic that the talks are headed more towards all civilian hostages,” al-Ansari said.
Persons:
Joe Biden's, ”, —, Majed Al, Ansari, Israel, Jake Sullivan, we’ve, ” Sullivan, Al, ” al, “ It’s
Organizations:
CNN, Hamas, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Qatari, US
Locations:
Gaza, Israel, Qatar, Egypt, Doha