White House Confirms 'Ongoing Talks And Discussions' With Hamas Officials

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed ongoing US discussions with Hamas representatives in Doha, Qatar, amid fragile ceasefire negotiations. While declining to reveal specifics, she emphasized that engaging in dialogue serves American interests. Leavitt stated that Israel has been consulted regarding the direct talks, highlighting the urgency of securing American lives. Israeli officials estimate that at least 24 living hostages, including US citizen Edan Alexander, remain in Gaza, along with the bodies of at least 35 others.