Hamas and Israel Prepare Delegations for Doha Talks on Hostage and Ceasefire Agreement
Both Israeli and Hamas delegations are expected to travel to Doha as soon as Sunday to restart discussions on a ceasefire and a deal for the release of hostages. According to sources close to Hamas, the group sent a positive response to the proposal on Friday, although it came with some reservations and additional demands.
Diplomatic Mediation and Proposed Truce
The initiative builds on several months of mediation led by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. The proposed 60‐day truce would involve phased exchanges between hostages and prisoners, a gradual withdrawal by Israeli forces, and an increase in humanitarian support. U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff described the plan as part of a broader effort to stabilize the situation in the region.
Government Review and Upcoming Delegation
Late Friday, Israel’s Security Cabinet met to review the draft agreement. There are indications that a complete delegation could be sent to Qatar by Sunday, pending a final decision later in the day.
Concerns from Hostage Families
In a rare public statement on Saturday, the Hostage Families Forum warned against adopting a “partial deal” or releasing hostages selectively. The forum criticized any arrangement resembling a “Schindler’s list,” arguing that such a measure would extend the suffering of the families of the 50 captives—20 of whom are alive, with two critically injured, and 28 deceased. They called for a comprehensive agreement that guarantees the return of all captives, stressing that it is a moral duty.
Draft Terms and Future Phases
The current draft of the proposal calls for an initial release of 10 living hostages along with the return of 18 bodies. Subsequent phases are expected to involve further prisoner exchanges and include steps to finalize a complete deal within 60 days.
Authorities are now awaiting the formal submission of the proposal by Qatari and Egyptian mediators before approving their delegation. A prominent U.S. figure, who has long supported this initiative, expressed optimism that the agreement could be finalized as soon as next week, describing the progress as a significant breakthrough.
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