World
US State Dept, on hostage deal, says it is not final but we are close
2023.11.21 14:13
© Reuters. Smoke rises after Israeli air strikes in Gaza, as seen from southern Israel, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas, November 21, 2023. REUTERS/Alexander Ermochenko
WASHINGTON (Reuters) – A hostage deal with Hamas was close but not final, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said on Tuesday, adding the delivery of humanitarian assistance for the Palestinian people was not contingent on a hostage deal.
Miller told reporters it has been clear for some time that the release of hostages would unlock the potential for the delivery of more humanitarian aid.