A framework exists for a deal to release the hostages held in Gaza, US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told MSNBC News on Monday, but he cautioned that nothing had been finalized.

“A lot of promise here, but again, I want to be very clear, there is still diplomacy ahead of us, a lot of discussions to occur before we can get there,” Kirby said.

He spoke as Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed Al-Thani, whose country is mediating the deal along with Egypt, was in Washington for talks with US officials including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

[If the ‘framework’ got created by the White House, it’s probably worthless. Kirby also said that the US negotiators have found the recent talks “constructive,” but that’s a reference to US discussions with the Qataris. Stay tuned, but don’t expect much. The Israelis now are only discussing the return of all hostages for safe passage of Hamas leaders into exile and the surrender of Gaza. Those are the only terms Israel should accept. — Ed]