"Envoy to Discuss Hostage Release Plan in Middle East"

A senior U.S. official is traveling to the Middle East to negotiate the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for a pause in Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejects Hamas's demands and opposes the creation of a Palestinian state, despite pressure from President Biden and international leaders. The U.N. secretary general calls for a humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza, where the civilian toll is described as "utterly unacceptable." Meanwhile, U.S. troops in Iraq are injured in an attack linked to Iran-backed militias, and aid groups highlight the disproportionate toll of the war on women in Gaza. Efforts are underway to push for Gaza aid to pass through an Israeli port, while the killing of a Palestinian-American teenager in the West Bank sparks investigation and grief.