Israel’s intelligence chief is set to participate in hostage talks in Doha, as confirmed by the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office in a statement released on Thursday. The exact timing of the meeting was not specified, but sources indicate that discussions are anticipated to take place over the upcoming weekend in Qatar, aimed at reigniting negotiations for a potential hostage and ceasefire agreement in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed Mossad Director David Barnea to represent Israel at the talks, with the Prime Minister’s Office stating that Barnea will work towards advancing various initiatives on the agenda, with the support of Cabinet members.
Netanyahu expressed appreciation for Egypt’s commitment to facilitating a resolution for the release of hostages, following recent discussions held in Cairo earlier this week.
Over the weekend, Israel’s Shin Bet security agency director, Ronen Bar, engaged in talks with Egypt’s newly appointed intelligence chief, Hassan Mahmoud Rashad, exploring avenues to progress towards a potential ceasefire agreement in exchange for the release of hostages, as per an Israeli official.
The United States is expected to be represented at the upcoming meeting by CIA Director Bill Burns, as part of efforts to generate fresh momentum towards a ceasefire deal in the aftermath of the recent killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, Hamas has exhibited no willingness to alter its position on hostage and ceasefire negotiations, and there remains uncertainty regarding the authoritative voice within the militant group. Meanwhile, Israel has continued its military operations in northern Gaza unabated and has maintained its military presence along the northern front in Lebanon.
