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Netanyahu Sends Mossad and Shin Bet Chiefs to Qatar for Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Release Talks

Jan 11, 2025, 05:21 PM

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved sending a high-level delegation, including Mossad Director David Barnea, Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar, and other senior officials, to Doha, Qatar, to participate in ceasefire negotiations regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The decision follows a meeting with Defense Minister Israel Katz, security chiefs, and negotiators representing both the outgoing and incoming U.S. administrations. The presence of these high-ranking officials indicates a significant step forward in the talks, which have been mediated by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar. The negotiations aim to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, with discussions centered around a phased ceasefire. Netanyahu has committed to the first phase, which involves a partial hostage release in exchange for a temporary halt in fighting. However, Hamas insists on a full Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza, a demand Netanyahu has resisted, prioritizing the destruction of Hamas's military capabilities. The urgency of these talks is heightened by the upcoming U.S. presidential inauguration on January 20, with pressure from both outgoing President Joe Biden and incoming President Donald Trump to reach an agreement before the transition.