Negotiations on extending the hostage-ceasefire between Israel and Hamas are set to resume in Qatar this week. An Israeli delegation will participate alongside U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, following prior refusals from Hamas to agree on terms. Despite recent tensions and rejections of proposals, there are indications of potential progress in discussions.
Negotiations regarding an extension of the hostage-ceasefire are reportedly set to resume as an Israeli delegation is scheduled to travel to Doha, Qatar this week. This delegation, along with Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, will engage in discussions aimed at advancing the hostage negotiations. A statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed the delegation’s participation, highlighting Israel’s acceptance of the mediators’ invitation backed by the United States.
Previously, Israel had withheld sending a negotiating team due to Hamas’ refusal to extend the initial ceasefire agreement and release more hostages. In a recent announcement, the Prime Minister’s Office indicated that Israel is considering a framework for a temporary ceasefire extension during the Ramadan and Passover periods, originally proposed by Witkoff. This arrangement would involve the release of half of both living and deceased hostages at the start of the extension, with the remainder released upon achieving a more permanent ceasefire. However, Hamas rejected this proposal, leading Israel to stop humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Witkoff’s planned trip to the Middle East was postponed after negotiations stalled, with both sides holding firm on their positions. In an effort to revive talks, Egypt proposed a two-week ceasefire extension that included the release of six additional hostages, but this initiative was also declined by Hamas. Recent developments indicate that the United States has engaged in secret negotiations with Hamas regarding hostage releases, prompting President Trump to issue a pointed ultimatum demanding the release of all hostages and the return of deceased individuals.
Despite initial denials from the Israeli government regarding progress, reports emerged that some advancements were made during discussions led by Trump’s envoy, Adam Boehler, with senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya. Moreover, it was noted that Hamas signaled agreement to the U.S. initiative for the hostage deal’s extension, which aligns with Witkoff’s proposal. As preparations for the delegation’s departure proceed, humanitarian aid remains obstructed at the Gaza border crossings.
The recent developments surrounding the negotiations between Israel and Hamas indicate a potential resumption of talks regarding the hostage-ceasefire agreement. Despite prior refusals from Hamas and stalled discussions, reports suggest that both sides might be moving toward a compromise, facilitated by international mediation. Continued diplomatic efforts and proposals highlight the complexities of the situation, while humanitarian aid remains impeded, affecting those in Gaza.
Original Source: allisrael.com
