2024-01-27 20:55:26
A meeting of the intelligence chiefs of Israel, Qatar and Egypt will be held in Paris tomorrow to try to begin negotiations for a new hostage deal. On the Israeli side, however, optimism is very measured. It is emphasized that Hamas continues to stick to its positions by demanding a total ceasefire before any agreement, and that the conditions are therefore not met for the opening of negotiations.
Israel’s goal at the meeting, which is expected to be attended by Mossad Chief David Barnea, Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar and Reserve General Nitzan Alon, is to break the deadlock in the negotiations. and create a framework for an agreement. While Hamas insists on the cessation of hostilities and the withdrawal of forces from the Gaza Strip before any agreement, the Jewish state excludes such a condition, saying it is ready for a ceasefire of a few weeks in exchange for the release of hostages. Jerusalem is therefore waiting for interim proposals from Qatar and Egypt to relaunch discussions.
Representatives of all mediating parties, except the Hamas leadership, are expected to attend this meeting. In addition to Israeli representatives, the head of the American CIA, the Prime Minister of Qatar and the head of Egyptian intelligence will also meet in the French capital.
On Friday, Hamas released a new propaganda video showing three female soldiers hostage. In Israel, more and more demonstrations are taking place to demand an agreement allowing the return of kidnapped Israelis, stressing that “the hostages’ time is running out.” 136 captives are still in Hamas hands.
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