Hamas Highlights Positive Gaza Truce Talks in Doha
Desttruction and poverty in Gaza Strip, Dec 2024 Photo: EFE
December 17, 2024 Hour: 8:58 pm
Hamas representatives reported positive progress in ongoing talks in Doha, Qatar, aimed at achieving a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The talks, mediated by Qatari and Egyptian officials, involve an Israeli delegation.
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A Hamas statement indicated that the discussions were “serious and positive,” but emphasized that a successful outcome depends on Israel avoiding the imposition of new conditions.
The statement also confirmed that the prisoner exchange is a central element of the negotiations. This exchange would involve Palestinians held in Israeli prisons and those captured in Gaza after the October 7th escalation, in return for hostages held by Hamas.
These discussions follow a visit to Doha by Israeli Mossad chief David Barnea. However, the Mossad is not expected to participate directly in the negotiations.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that negotiators are closer to an agreement on hostage release than at any point since November.
No further details regarding the specifics of the negotiations or timelines were released by any party.
