In a major sign of progress amid Gaza crisis, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided to send Mossad's director to Qatar for ceasefire negotiations. Ceasefire talks have been going on between Israel and Hamas, and Mossad foreign intelligence agency chief is expected to join the indirect negotations.
Till now, just one brief ceasefire has been achieved in 15 months of war, and that was in the earliest weeks of fighting. The talks mediated by the US, Egypt and Qatar have repeatedly stalled since then.
Mossad director's presence means high-level Israeli officials who would need to sign off on any agreement are now involved. Along with Mossad chief, head of Israel's Shin Bet internal security agency and military and political advisers will also be sent to Qatar to be part of negotiation talks.
Further, it was not immediately clear when David Barnea would travel to Qatar's capital, Doha, for the latest round of indirect talks between Israel and the Hamas group, reported AP. However, there is US pressure for a deal before the presidential inauguration on January 20.
Netanyahu's office said the decision followed a meeting with his defence minister, security chiefs and negotiators "on behalf of the outgoing and incoming US administrations".
The office also released a photo showing Netanyahu with President-elect Donald Trump's incoming special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, who was in Qatar this week.
While Hamas is insisting on a full Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza, Netanyahu has hinted that Israel is only committed to first phase. Release of hostages is expected in exchange of ceasefire.
The families of around 100 hostages, who have been held captive since October 7 2023, have repeatedly urged Netanyahu to crack a deal with Hamas to bring their loved ones home. The recovery of two hostages' bodies in the past week renewed fears that time is running out. Hamas has said that after months of heavy fighting, it isn't sure who is alive or dead.
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