Gaza US officials held several rounds of direct talks with Hamas leaders in Qatar since the start of the year, focusing on American hostages in Gaza while also addressing other topics such as the second phase of the ceasefire agreement,

It was yesterday revealed that the United States has held talks with the militant group - which is proscribed by the US and UK - breaking a longstanding position to not negotiate with terrorists.

Gulf state says no Qatari money went to terror group's political or military wing, stresses that yearslong payments to Strip were made with consent of Israel, including Shin Bet

Source, speaking to Anadolu on condition of anonymity, says talks took place weeks ago while noting this was not 1st time such meetings had occurred - Anadolu Ajansı