Israel sends Mossad, Shin Bet heads to Qatar for Gaza ceasefire talks

CAIRO – 11 January 2025: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is dispatching a high-level delegation to Qatar for ceasefire negotiations, his office announced on Saturday.

The delegation reportedly comprises Mossad director David Barnea, Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, as well as various military and political advisers.

The timing of Barnea's trip to Doha remains unclear, but US pressure for a resolution ahead of the presidential inauguration on January 20 is increasing.

The involvement of these high-level officials suggests potential progress in the ongoing war in Gaza, as they are essential for signing any possible agreement.

Negotiations, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, have been stalled for over 15 months, with only one brief ceasefire achieved during that time.

The six-day ceasefire in November 2023 resulted in the release of around 100 Israeli captives in exchange for about 240 Palestinian prisoners.

According to AFP, of the 251 captives taken by Hamas during their attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, 96 individuals remain in captivity in Gaza, with 34 reportedly dead, according to the Israeli military.

Further efforts to establish another ceasefire deal have been hindered by outstanding points of contention.

Netanyahu has indicated a willingness to consider a partial hostage release in exchange for a temporary halt in fighting, while Hamas demands a complete Israeli troop withdrawal.

Families of the about 100 captives remaining in captivity are urging Netanyahu to secure a deal for their release, as protests continue in Tel Aviv demanding action.