Biden administration officials are considering negotiating a unilateral deal with Hamas to secure the release of five American hostages in Gaza if current cease-fire talks with Israel fail.
Key Points
Biden administration considering negotiating with Hamas for American hostages
Talks would be conducted through Qatari interlocutors
Israeli leader under pressure to reach an agreement
Current proposed ceasefire deal facing challenges
Secretary of State Antony Blinken to travel to the region for discussions
Pros
Possible release of American hostages
Potential strain on relations between the U.S. and Israel
Cons
Uncertainty on what the U.S. may give Hamas in exchange