CIA Director, Mossad chief in secret talks to expand Israel-Hamas hostage swap: Report

CIA Director William J Burns held undisclosed talks in Qatar with Israel's Mossad chief and Qatar's prime minister to facilitate a deal between Israel and Hamas. Burns is pushing for the expansion of ongoing hostage negotiations and a longer pause in fighting. He seeks the release of American hostages held by Hamas and is valued for his Middle East contacts. Burns plays a central role in the hostage crisis, given Israel's reliance on Mossad Chief David Barnea.