Israeli PM Netanyahu and US President Biden Engage in Talks Over Gaza Hostage Negotiations
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Jerusalem, Jan 13 (NationPress) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden engaged in a phone call to review developments in the negotiations focused on securing the release of hostages in Gaza, as reported by Netanyahu's office.
During the conversation, Netanyahu updated Biden on the mandate assigned to negotiators in Qatar aimed at facilitating the release of the hostages. A senior-level Israeli delegation arrived in Doha earlier on Sunday, which included Mossad chief David Barnea, head of Shin Bet security Ronen Bar, and the military's hostage affairs coordinator Nitzan Alon, according to Xinhua news agency.
While both Israeli and Palestinian officials indicated advancements in the negotiations over the weekend, specific details remain limited. Israeli state broadcaster Kan TV, referencing unnamed Israeli officials, noted that the discussions were fruitful, with expectations for a significant breakthrough "in the coming days."
Biden's national security advisor, Jake Sullivan, mentioned on CNN's "State of the Union" that the involved parties are "very, very close" to finalizing a deal but still need to "bring it across the finish line."
A major challenge in the indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas continues to be the issue of a ceasefire. While Hamas insists on a permanent truce, Israel is advocating for a temporary halt in hostilities, asserting the right to resume military actions if necessary for security.
Recent months have seen intermittent indirect peace talks between Israel and Hamas, with Qatar, Egypt, and the United States serving as primary mediators.
In recent weeks, negotiations regarding a ceasefire in Gaza and a potential prisoner swap have gained significant traction.
The hostage crisis initiated on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 individuals and the capture of approximately 250 hostages. Currently, 98 hostages remain in captivity in Gaza, with reports suggesting that at least a third may have perished.
The military response from Israel has led to extensive destruction in Gaza. Health authorities managed by Hamas reported on Sunday that Israeli airstrikes have resulted in at least 46,565 fatalities and 109,660 injuries.
