Israel has ended its participation in hostage negotiations in Qatar’s capital, Doha, with senior officials Gal Hirsch and “M” set to return to Israel. The decision was made by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid no progress in talks.
A small team will remain in Doha to signal continued Israeli willingness to negotiate a deal. However, officials emphasized that Hamas has not shifted its position, and the process is exhausted.
The negotiations have been ongoing since the release of an Israeli-American hostage last Monday. Hamas has demanded a partial release of hostages for a temporary ceasefire, while Israel’s proposal includes the release of 10 living hostages for a 45-day truce.
Netanyahu previously extended the delegation’s stay to avoid appearing to leave before talks with the US could conclude. The move came amid concerns that a complete end to the war may not be guaranteed in negotiations.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-854709