U.S. officials told families of hostages that the issue was a top priority during Monday’s White House meeting between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump. According to the sources, the United States is pressing for a hostage deal as part of a broader regional initiative aimed at ending the war in Gaza and ultimately advancing normalization with Saudi Arabia. The officials said ongoing nuclear-related talks with Iran are also part of this wider strategy and not being pursued in isolation. According to those familiar with the discussions, any end to the war must include a comprehensive resolution to the hostage crisis.


