US confirms direct talks with Hamas over hostage release

New Delhi, March 6: The White House has confirmed that the US is negotiating directly with Hamas to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that Israel had been consulted before these talks began as reported by International media.Leavitt explained that President Trump believes in doing what is best for the American people. She also described the efforts of Adam Boehler, the US special envoy for hostages, as a “good faith effort” to help bring Americans home, BBC reported.A Palestinian source told the BBC that there have been “two direct meetings” between Hamas and a US official, as well as several earlier communications.Israel reports that 59 hostages are still being held in Gaza. Of these, up to 24 are believed to be alive, including US citizens. The talks were first reported by Axios, which said meetings were taking place in Qatar. The discussions focus on releasing US hostages but also touch on a broader deal to end the war. Israel’s government has acknowledged the US negotiations but has not provided further details as reported by media.