A high-ranking Israeli security delegation traveled to Qatar on Sunday for discussions regarding a potential Gaza hostage and ceasefire agreement, according to a statement from the spokesperson for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This development could signal progress toward agreements that have so far been difficult to achieve.
Mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and the United States are intensifying efforts to secure a deal to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza and release the remaining 98 hostages held there before President-elect Donald Trump assumes office on January 20.
Netanyahu’s office announced on Saturday that the delegation includes Mossad Chief David Barnea, Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar, and the military’s head of the hostage negotiations, Nitzan Alon.
Steve Witkoff, Trump’s Middle East envoy, held a meeting with Netanyahu on Saturday following a meeting with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani on Friday.
Israeli and Palestinian representatives have acknowledged since Thursday that some progress has been made in the indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas. However, they have not disclosed specific details, maintaining confidentiality about the discussions.
One of the most significant obstacles remains unresolved: Hamas insists on an end to the war, while Israel maintains it will not cease hostilities as long as Hamas governs Gaza and continues to pose a threat to its citizens.
Israel launched its military campaign in Gaza after Hamas fighters crossed into its territory in October 2023, killing 1,200 people and taking over 250 hostages, based on Israeli figures.
Since the start of the conflict, over 46,000 people have been killed in Gaza, according to Palestinian health officials. The enclave has been devastated, with widespread destruction, a severe humanitarian crisis, and most of its population displaced.
