Mideast envoy holds 'constructive' talks in Egypt, Israel, White House says

On Thursday, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that Brett McGurk, the US envoy for the Middle East, conducted "constructive" discussions in Egypt and Israel.

Kirby emphasised that Washington is dedicated to facilitating a deal that would exchange hostages for an extended pause.

During a virtual briefing with journalists, Kirby did not verify reports from Axios that CIA director Bill Burns would be meeting in Paris with officials from Qatar, Egypt, and Israel.

"I can't confirm the specific reports about Paris but I can absolutely reassure you that discussions are ongoing," Kirby said.