"U.S. National Security Adviser Vows Relentless Pressure on Hamas for Hostage Release"

National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan stated that the U.S. is persistently advocating for the release of hostages held by Hamas, emphasizing the importance of a sustained pause in hostilities to provide life-saving assistance to people in Gaza. Sullivan mentioned that the U.S. is prioritizing the needs of the Palestinian people and pressing Israel on humanitarian assistance, while Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to emphasize this during his visit to the region. The U.S. believes there are still six American hostages in Hamas' custody, and Sullivan noted that the ball is currently in Hamas' court regarding a potential hostage deal.