US State Department calls Qatar 'close partner' on hostage negotiations, says talks continue

• Published date: 16 April 2024
• Author: HANNAH SARISOHN
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

On Tuesday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with both the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Qatar

Miller reiterated Hamas - not Qatar, Egypt, or Israel - is the impediment to the hostage agreement.

"It is Hamas that refused to agree to the deal that is on the table, despite the fact that it would achieve much of the things that they have publicly claimed and repeated statements that they are trying to achieve," Miller said.

Gaza aid

While Miller said there's been a significant increase in the number of aid trucks going into Gaza, he said it's still not enough.

Miller said the number of trucks going in isn't the only focus, but also where the trucks are going and ensuring they get to Northern Gaza.

Miller added that it ensures the Ashdod port is open and that bakeries in Northern Gaza can reopen.

According to Miller, 65 trucks went into Northern Gaza on Sunday, and more were planned for Monday.

Miller said the US has been in communication with the Israeli government and partners about the importance of getting medical supplies into Gaza, and items that are legitimate medical items aren't excluded from deliveries into Gaza.

Miller said conversations are ongoing regarding the distribution of humanitarian aid that will be delivered...