Israeli PM Netanyahu, US President Biden Discuss Gaza Hostage Deal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden discussed progress in Gaza hostage negotiations during a phone call, Netanyahu’s office announced. Netanyahu provided updates on the mandate given to negotiators in Qatar to push for the release of hostages held by Hamas.

A high-level Israeli delegation arrived in Doha on Sunday to advance the talks. The delegation included Mossad chief David Barnea, Shin Bet security head Ronen Bar, and the military’s hostage affairs coordinator Nitzan Alon, according to Xinhua news agency.

Israeli and Palestinian officials noted progress in the negotiations over the weekend, though specific details remain under wraps. Israeli state broadcaster Kan TV, citing unnamed officials, described the talks as productive and expressed optimism for a breakthrough “in the next few days.”

Biden’s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, reinforced this optimism during an interview on CNN’s “State of the Union.” He stated that the parties were “very, very close” to an agreement but emphasized the need to finalize the deal.

The question of a ceasefire remains a significant hurdle in the indirect negotiations. Hamas has demanded a permanent truce, while Israel has proposed a temporary pause in fighting. Israeli officials maintain that military operations could resume if necessary for security.

The current hostage crisis began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants stormed southern Israel. The attack resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people and the capture of approximately 250 hostages. Of these, 98 are still in captivity in Gaza, with at least a third presumed dead.

Over the past months, indirect peace talks between Israel and Hamas have been mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. In recent weeks, discussions have gained momentum, focusing on a potential ceasefire and a prisoner swap deal.

Devastation In Gaza Amid Negotiations

The ongoing Israeli military campaign in Gaza has caused widespread destruction and loss of life. The Hamas-run health ministry reported on Sunday that Israeli airstrikes had killed at least 46,565 people and injured 109,660 others.

Despite the heavy toll, negotiators remain committed to resolving the hostage crisis. Both sides are working toward a resolution that could bring relief to the families of the hostages and mark a significant step in the broader conflict.

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