As C.I.A. director, William J. Burns was deeply focused on China and Russia when the Middle East conflict plunged him back into his old life.

Towing the line between diplomat and intelligence agent, Burns's trips to the region are shrouded under a cloak of mystery.

While the United States tries to spy on one of the hardest targets, Burns has also tried to reopen a dialogue with Beijing, including via his counterpart, Chen Yixin, the security minister. (The head of the China Mission Center, a career CIA officer fluent in Mandarin, accompanied Burns on one of his trips to Beijing.)

Their dealmaking cooperation represents an unusual moment in the polarized world of U.S. politics. But it did not stop both Trump and Biden from touting their respective roles.

Negotiators are on “the brink” of an agreement to end the fighting and free hostages, according to President Biden.

In a wide-ranging exit interview, NPR's Mary Louise Kelly asks Central Intelligence Agency director William Burns about the resurgence of ISIS, and what's next for the intel community.

IDF announces four soldiers killed in northern Gaza • Hamas says Netanyahu has agreed to end the war •Hostage negotiations may conclude before Trump's inauguration | Page 2 of 2

And is probably still at it. As newly released classified documents confirm activists’ long-held suspicions, the disclosures should also alert us to current dangers.

Hamas warned Israel that the ongoing airstrikes in Gaza could kill the remaining captives before the break-through cease-fire and hostage exchange deal even begins ...

Ceasefire suspends 15-month-old war Gaza residents return to devastated neighborhoods, assess damage Hamas and Israel exchange hostages and prisoners amid truce GAZA/CAIRO/JERUSALEM, Jan 19 ...

The terrorist group Hamas released three hostages from Gaza hours after a cease-fire deal with Israel took effect after a brief delay Sunday. Romi Gonen, 24, Emily Demari, 27, and Doron ...

The first three hostages released from Gaza as part of a fragile ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas that came into effect on Sunday have arrived in Israel, the military ...