The United States is in talks with Hamas about the hostages held in Gaza, the White House confirmed.
So far, Washington has been avoiding direct commitment to Hamas and has a long -standing US policy against direct contact with groups it lists as terrorist organizations.
White House press center Carolyn Levitt told a briefing reporters that Israel had been consulted before the talks.
NEWS about the conversations have been reported for the first time by AxiosWho said the two countries are discussing the release of US hostages, as well as a broader deal to end war.
“As for the negotiations you have in mind, first of all the Special Messenger who deals with these negotiations has the powers,” said Da Levit.
The special envoy of the hostages, Adam Boler's work was “a bona fide effort to do what is appropriate for the American people,” she added.