White House press secretary Secretary Karoline Leavitt says that U.S. officials have had “ongoing talks and discussions” with Hamas officials.

Asked about the talks, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that "the special envoy who's engaged in those negotiations does have the authority to talk to anyone".

The discussions mark the first time the U.S. has held face-to-face talks with the militant group since Gaza war began.