Families of hostages urge Biden administration to negotiate deal with Hamas excluding Israel

The families of American hostages held by Hamas have urged the White House to consider a unilateral deal with the terrorist organization for their release. The option is being discussed within the Biden administration, as concerns grow that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may not agree to an arrangement with Hamas. There are four remaining American hostages believed to be alive, and the administration is also seeking the return of three others believed to be dead. Previous attempts to negotiate a unilateral deal with Hamas have not advanced due to opposition within the administration. The U.S. has even compiled a list of prisoners that Hamas may be interested in releasing in exchange for the kidnapped Americans, including leaders of a Texas-based charity convicted of providing funds to Hamas. Apart from a unilateral deal, the administration is also considering offering a “take it or leave it” deal to Israel and Hamas. President Biden remains committed to securing the release of the hostages and continues to work towards a broader agreement involving Israel. The White House believes the best option for the hostages is through negotiations mediated by Qatar but is open to exploring other options. Hope for a positive outcome in the negotiations remains high.

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