US, Iraq, Israel Seek Hostage Deals Amid Ongoing Gaza, Baghdad Talks

Negotiations are ongoing to secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza and Israeli-Russian academic Elizabeth Tsurkov kidnapped in Iraq. U.S. envoys, including Steve Witkoff and Adam Boehler, have conveyed optimism about possible progress in Gaza hostage talks, aiming for a ceasefire and permanent truce, though no formal agreement has been reached as Israel resists terms involving limited releases. Hamas reportedly demands personal involvement and public gestures from U.S. envoys to build trust. Meanwhile, talks concerning Tsurkov's release have entered a new phase involving Iraqi, Iranian, American, and Israeli parties, with prisoner exchanges being discussed; however, the U.S. opposes ransom payments and the release of certain detainees linked to the killing of Americans. Despite reports of breakthroughs, a senior U.S. official clarified that no deal is imminent, especially one involving controversial prisoner releases. Both hostage situations remain complex, with international mediation efforts ongoing amid political and security challenges.