Reports from Israeli government, international news agencies, or statements from Hamas

Netanyahu Authorizes Delegation to Resume Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Release Talks in Qatar Amid Mediation Efforts

Jan 3, 2025, 07:00 AM

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has authorized a delegation to travel to Doha, Qatar, to resume negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held there. The delegation, comprising representatives from the Mossad, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and the Israel Security Agency (ISA), left for Qatar on Friday. This move comes after a Hamas delegation visited Cairo to discuss the ceasefire agreement, indicating ongoing efforts to resolve the conflict. The negotiations are being facilitated by mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. Netanyahu's decision follows mutual accusations between Israel and Hamas of delaying a deal, with both sides expressing cautious optimism about the possibility of closing gaps and reaching an agreement in the coming weeks.