In response to questions from reporters, the Iranian mission stated that it had not been involved in the talks and had no intention of joining them. "We have not been present in the indirect ceasefire talks between Hamas and the regime, mediated by Egypt, Qatar and the US, and we do not plan to be," it said.

Meanwhile, a team of senior US officials, led by CIA Director Bill Burns, is set to travel to the Middle East to negotiate a ceasefire and prisoner release. The outcome of these talks will determine whether the region will plunge into a deeper crisis and wider conflict or take a significant turn for the first time since October 7, 2023. The result could also shape President Joe Biden's legacy.

Israeli officials told Axios that Thursday's talks represent the "last chance" for an agreement.