Israel plans to send a delegation to Qatar for cease-fire discussions, focusing on the release of hostages held by Hamas. Tensions have risen due to U.S.-Hamas talks perceived to be sidelining Israeli interests. Hamas demands conditions for a cease-fire extension, including prisoner releases. Negotiations are ongoing, with both sides showing some willingness to negotiate terms amid complex diplomatic dynamics.
Israel is set to send a delegation to Doha on Monday to discuss the release of hostages held by Hamas. This decision follows an invitation from Egypt and Qatar, and it is supported by the United States. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration is motivated by rising tensions regarding direct U.S.-Hamas negotiations, which are perceived as potentially bypassing Israel’s interests in the matter.
The Israeli delegation will comprise senior officials, including a Shin Bet official, and will pursue the framework proposed by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff during the upcoming talks. This announcement followed a security consultation amid escalating concerns about U.S. talks with Hamas, perceived as a potential risk to Israel’s influence on prisoner release agreements.
Despite earlier reports suggesting that both Israel and Hamas had agreed to extend the cease-fire through Ramadan, both parties have since denied such claims. As per reports, Hamas has shown willingness to extend the cease-fire by two months in principle, coupled with a phased release of hostages, including Israeli soldiers.
Negotiations led by Adam Boehler, a prominent envoy during the Trump administration, have encountered varying proposals aimed at modifying the existing negotiation framework. Recent discussions reportedly focus on releasing fewer hostages but securing a cease-fire extension to coincide with major religious observances.
Gaza-based journalist Tamer Almisshal detailed that U.S. officials engaged with Hamas in multiple direct meetings, discussing a deal involving the release of an Israeli American soldier and the remains of other Israeli nationals, with Hamas responding by demanding the release of hundreds of Palestinians in Israeli custody.
In conclusion, Israel’s decision to engage in cease-fire talks in Qatar illustrates the complexity of the ongoing negotiations involving hostage releases and diplomatic maneuvering. While Hamas has expressed specific demands to continue discussions, tensions remain high due to the direct engagement of the U.S. with the group, raising concerns for Israeli officials regarding their influence over the outcomes. The situation continues to evolve as all parties seek to reach a satisfactory resolution.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
