Israeli Delegation Engages in Cease-Fire Talks Amid U.S.-Hamas Tensions

Israel is dispatching a delegation to Qatar for hostage negotiations, amid rising tensions over direct U.S.-Hamas talks. Hamas is demanding new conditions for cease-fire extensions, including the release of Palestinian prisoners. The situation has led to concerns of sidelining Israel in U.S. discussions, while multiple parties seek a resolution to the hostage crisis.

Israel will send a delegation to Doha on Monday to discuss the release of hostages held in Gaza, following a joint invitation from Egypt and Qatar, with support from the United States. This decision emerged from a security consultation led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amidst concerns regarding direct U.S.-Hamas negotiations that seem to bypass Israeli involvement. The delegation will consist of officials from the Shin Bet, IDF, and Mossad, as well as Netanyahu’s political advisor, Ophir Falk, and will follow frameworks proposed by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff.

Reports regarding an extension of the temporary cease-fire during Ramadan were denied by both Israel and Hamas. However, discussions have indicated that Hamas may agree to extend the current cease-fire by two months along with a phased release of hostages, which reportedly includes Israeli soldiers. A source disclosed that Israel’s decision to send its delegation was prompted by observed progress in talks with Hamas.

Over the weekend, Adam Boehler, Donald Trump’s hostages envoy, engaged in discussions with Hamas about modifying existing frameworks for hostages release. Current negotiations appear to be shifting from a comprehensive two-phase release to a smaller, targeted release while extending the cease-fire through the end of Ramadan and Passover.

Gaza-based journalist Tamer Almisshal reported that several meetings transpired this week between U.S. officials and Hamas, focusing on potential releases concerning one missing Israeli-American soldier and the remains of four others. In exchange for these releases, Hamas demands the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails, leading to discussions of veto rights over a list that has yet to be agreed upon.

New developments suggest that the U.S. is attempting to negotiate a deal for the release of ten hostages in return for a 60-day cease-fire, while also prioritizing the return of Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander. The urgency is underscored by recent pressures on the Trump administration to resolve the hostage crisis, especially before the President’s upcoming trip to Saudi Arabia.

Israeli officials express concerns that ongoing U.S.-Hamas talks could marginalize their influence regarding the hostage negotiations. Recent discussions have revealed varying outlooks on progress, with Israeli officials feeling sidelined and U.S. advisors expressing confidence in a resolution.

The diplomatic relationship between Israel and the U.S. has been strained, especially after tensions arose between Israeli Minister Ron Dermer and Boehler regarding direct U.S. engagements with Hamas, which Dermer perceived as undermining Israeli authority. U.S. officials acknowledged Israeli dissatisfaction but assured them of ongoing communication regarding the dialogues.

As discussions progress, a Hamas delegation has arrived in Cairo for further negotiations, with expectations that conditions will remain stringent regarding any potential cease-fire extension or hostage exchanges. Hamas has reiterated the necessity for significant Israeli concessions before they consider extending the cease-fire or agreeing to a new framework for future negotiations.

In summary, Israel’s upcoming delegation to Doha aims to facilitate hostage negotiations in a complex landscape of U.S.-Hamas discussions. The situation is further complicated by both parties’ demands and ongoing tensions regarding direct negotiations. Israel expresses concerns over being sidelined in U.S. dealings with Hamas, while the U.S. seeks to secure hostages’ release in tandem with broader geopolitical ambitions. As talks evolve, the pressure for a resolution remains critical, especially with impending diplomatic engagements.

Original Source: www.ynetnews.com