As Israel's top security officials prepare to convene Thursday evening, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has already set the wheels in motion. A high-level source confided to Israel Hayom that Netanyahu, acting on his own authority, greenlit sending negotiators to pursue talks on the hostage situation. The prime minister remained adamant, however, that military operations would persist until Israel achieved its stated goals.
The current plan submitted by the mediators has generated buzz in Israeli circles, with some dubbing it "the most promising offer yet." Hamas, too, has signaled a positive reception to the plan put forward by mediators. This potential breakthrough comes against a backdrop of escalating tensions, as Israel's northern frontier saw intense fighting following the targeted elimination of a key Hezbollah figure and a subsequent deluge of rocket and drone attacks.
In the early hours of Thursday, Hamas revealed that Ismail Haniyeh, who heads the group's political wing, had been locked in discussions with Qatari and Egyptian intermediaries. These talks centered on strategies to broker an end to the war. Haniyeh also touched base with Turkish officials to brief them on the latest developments. Hamas has expressed cautious optimism about the direction of these conversations.
Previously, Israel's intelligence agency, the Mossad, confirmed receipt of Hamas's response to the proposed framework for a hostage deal. Israeli decision-makers are now carefully weighing their options before crafting their reply.
The unfolding negotiations have captured global attention, with stakeholders from Washington to Cairo watching closely. As the situation evolves, the international community remains on edge, hoping for a resolution that might pave the way for broader peace talks in this war-torn region.
