The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is the US foreign intelligence service.
A major pillar of the US intelligence community, the CIA operates to safeguard US national security and interests. It does this by collecting information and carrying out covert operations in countries across the world.
The agency's activities include counterintelligence, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and more.
The newly appointed CIA chief, John Ratcliffe, noted last week that one of his priorities would be assessing the origins of the pandemic.
Towing the line between diplomat and intelligence agent, Burns's trips to the region are shrouded under a cloak of mystery.
Currently, with Trump inaugurating his second term, prioritizing the CIA's challenges regarding Iran is crucial.
Classified documents regarding the assassinations of JFK, RFK, and MLK are to be released. Trump added that "other topics of great interest" will have classified records declassified.
Current progress in the talks remains stuck for the time being, as the two sides remain at an impasse over a couple of Israeli demands.
This comes with reports that a hostage deal could come in a month.
Asif William Rahman was arrested by the FBI in Cambodia in November and was charged with disclosing classified documents, pleading not guilty to violating the Espionage Act.
CIA official Asif W. Rahman held top-secret security clearance and had access to sensitive information, the New York Times reported.
The proposed deal would see Hamas releasing eight hostages in exchange for dozens of Palestinian prisoners.
Hamas officials have also stated that they are sending representatives for talks in Doha.
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