According to Reuters, the US has advised Israel to hold off a ground assault in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip and is keeping Qatar - a mediator with the Palestinian militants - informed of those talks as Washington attempts to free more hostages and prepares for a possible spillover into a wider regional war.

After Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, the US stood with its ally, emphasizing Israel's right to defend itself. It has also said openly that Israel would set its timetable for retaliation.