US discussing deal with Hamas to release American captives: reports

The United States is considering a request to reach a unilateral deal with Hamas to secure the return of American captives held by the group's armed wing in Gaza, according to US media reports.

NBC News cited five sources familiar with the matter who said that US officials are discussing the request, which was made during a meeting between US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and the families of the captives on Sunday.

Biden administration officials told the news outlet that it was considering all options, however, underscored that a comprehensive deal involving Hamas and Israel remains the best option.

"We have considered all possible options to free the hostages and bring them home to their families. Because of Hamas’ demands, there has not been a formal offer for a side deal made because no such deal is possible," the official said, likely referring to the Palestinian group's insistence that Israeli forces withdraw from Gaza.

Asked Tuesday whether the Biden administration would seriously consider a unilateral deal with Hamas, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller did not answer directly, saying: "Our entire focus has been on securing an agreement to get home all the hostages. That, of course, includes the American hostages," he said.

"Our first priority is always the safety and security of American citizens overseas. We are focused on a deal that would bring them home, along with all the other American hostages."

According to NBC, US officials made initial contact with Hamas through Qatari mediators around six months ago to explore the possibility of a unilateral agreement.

The reports come amid mounting concerns over whether Israel will be able to safely return the remaining captives, following the retrieval of the bodies of six captives — including US citizen Hersh Goldberg-Polin — last week.

Families of the captives have accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of not doing enough to secure a deal, as well as missing opportunities to save their now-deceased relatives.

Netanyahu has also clashed with the families of hostages in face-to-face meetings, leaked audio recordings have revealed.

In recent weeks, negotiations have stalled over Netanyahu's demand that Israel maintain military control over the Philadelphia Corridor between Gaza and Egypt.

On Thursday, a Haaretz report cited an Israeli government coalition source who said that Netanyahu was deliberately using the Egypt-Gaza border issue to prolong the war and cling to power.

Washington is expected to propose a new ceasefire deal to end the deadlock, however, Hamas said on Thursday that no new proposals were needed, insisting on more pressure on Israel.