Israeli Delegation Resumes Talks for Hostage Release Deal with Hamas

File: Relatives and supporters of Israeli hostages held in Gaza rally in Tel Aviv on Feb. 8. Photo: Ahmad Gharabli/AFP via Getty Images

Highlights

• White House welcomes resumption of talks
• Mossad boss to lead Israeli talks delegation
• “Real chance” of deal: source in Israeli delegation
• Netanyahu discussed talks in call with Biden
• Israeli security cabinet convenes

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided to send a delegation to resume negotiations on a hostage release deal with Hamas, as confirmed by both U.S. President Joe Biden and Netanyahu’s administration. After Hamas presented a revised proposal, an Israeli source mentioned a real chance of reaching an agreement.

The head of Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency will lead the Israeli delegation for the talks. Netanyahu, after consulting with his negotiating team, will discuss the hostage release talks with his security cabinet. The White House welcomed Netanyahu’s decision to authorize negotiators to engage with mediators.

Israel received Hamas’ response to the proposed deal, with Hamas showing flexibility. The plan involves the gradual release of hostages, ceasefire, and reconstruction efforts. The Palestinian death toll in the conflict has surpassed 38,000.

As Gaza residents express exhaustion and hope for an end to the war, Israeli forces continue operations in accordance with international law. The potential for a renewed dialogue brings both hope and caution for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.

REUTERS