Israel to Send Negotiators to Gaza Talks Amid Standoff Over Hamas Demands
In a significant development in the ongoing conflict, Israel has announced its decision to dispatch negotiators to Qatar for proximity talks concerning a potential ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages. This move comes despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu describing Hamas’s proposed amendments to the ceasefire plan as “unacceptable.” The invitation to talks was accepted following an assessment of the current situation, signaling a continued diplomatic effort to de-escalate the conflict.
Hamas had previously communicated a “positive response” to the proposal, which reportedly includes a 60-day ceasefire, and expressed readiness for negotiations. However, a Palestinian official indicated that Hamas sought crucial amendments. These reportedly include guarantees that hostilities would not resume if talks for a permanent truce faltered, and specific conditions regarding the distribution of aid and the withdrawal of Israeli troops.
The proposed deal, mediated by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, is understood to involve the phased release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. While the framework is believed to include the release of 10 living Israeli hostages and the bodies of 18 others, approximately 50 hostages are still believed to be held in Gaza, with at least 20 thought to be alive. The plan also reportedly emphasizes the immediate entry of substantial aid into Gaza, facilitated by the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Hamas’s specific demands include the exclusive distribution of aid by the UN and its partners, the immediate cessation of operations by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), and a commitment to Israeli troop withdrawals to pre-conflict positions. Furthermore, Hamas is reportedly seeking a US guarantee against the resumption of Israeli air and ground operations, even if a permanent truce is not achieved.
Meanwhile, the conflict continues to exact a heavy toll on civilians. Reports from Gaza indicate that at least 35 Palestinians were killed on Saturday due to Israeli strikes and gunfire. In one particularly tragic incident, seven people, including a doctor and his children, were killed when tents in the al-Mawasi area were bombed. Additionally, two American employees of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) were injured in what the organization described as a grenade attack in the Khan Younis area. Both Israel and the US have blamed Hamas for the attack, though the group has not yet commented.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has reiterated Israel’s stance that the war will not conclude until all hostages are released and Hamas’s military and governing capabilities are dismantled. This position faces internal pressure, with far-right members of his cabinet, such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, advocating for a complete conquest of Gaza, a halt to humanitarian aid, and the encouragement of Palestinian emigration.
The diplomatic efforts are being closely watched, with US President Donald Trump expressing optimism about a potential Gaza deal. Trump is scheduled to meet with Netanyahu soon, and a breakthrough would significantly bolster his administration’s diplomatic achievements. The families of hostages, who continue to advocate for their loved ones’ safe return, have appealed to international leaders, including President Trump, to help secure a comprehensive deal.
The ongoing violence and the complex negotiations underscore the critical need for a lasting resolution. The international community remains focused on achieving a ceasefire, facilitating humanitarian aid, and working towards a stable future for the region.