Washington, 5 March 2025 (dpa/MIA) - The US government has confirmed that it is holding direct talks with the Islamist group Hamas in Gaza.

Special envoy Steve Witkoff is authorized to talk to anyone, White house spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt told reporters when asked why the US was negotiating directly with the group for the first time, contrary to its long-standing policy.

Israel had been consulted on the matter, said Leavitt. She did not want to comment on the content of the talks.

US President Donald Trump fundamentally believes in dialogue with "people around the world" in the interests of Americans, she emphasised.

"Israel has communicated its position to the United States regarding direct talks with Hamas," announced the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. No further details were given.

Hamas sources had previously confirmed to dpa that direct talks were taking place with the US government regarding American hostages and a more comprehensive agreement to end the war in Gaza.

No agreement has yet been reached, the sources added.

The US officially classifies Hamas as a terrorist organization.

Photo: MIA archive