Talks between Hamas and the U.S. administration on a ceasefire in Gaza and the entry of humanitarian aid to the besieged enclave are underway, a senior Palestinian official familiar with the discussions told Reuters on Sunday.

Hamas says it will release Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander, who is believed to be the last living captive with US nationality in Gaza, as a part of efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement.

The White House’s special envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff has said there is a strong chance of further ceasefire and hostage negotiation breakthroughs after Edan Alexander was freed this week.