Official announcements from the Israeli government or international news agencies

Netanyahu Sends Delegation to Qatar to Free 98 Hostages Before January 20, Amid Talks with Biden

Jan 12, 2025, 04:33 PM

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dispatched a high-level security delegation to Doha, Qatar, to advance negotiations on a hostage deal and ceasefire in Gaza. The delegation, which includes Mossad Chief David Barnea, Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar, and IDF General Nitzan Alon, aims to secure the release of the remaining 98 hostages held in Gaza. Progress in the negotiations has been reported, with discussions focusing on halting the fighting in the enclave and freeing the hostages before the January 20 inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Netanyahu has also discussed the negotiations with U.S. President Joe Biden, who emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and the return of the hostages. Amid these efforts, Netanyahu is working to secure support from his coalition partners for the deal, meeting with ministers including Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich to ensure it does not lead to the government's dissolution.