Israel-Hamas battle: Netanyahu appoints Mossad director for Gaza ceasefire talks in Qatar

In a big growth, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave his nod to ship David Barnea, the director of the Mossad – a international intelligence company – to ceasefire negotiations in Qatar, strengthening hope for a pause within the battle in Gaza. The Prime Minister’s Workplace introduced the choice on Saturday. 

Nonetheless, It was not instantly clear when Barnea would journey to Qatar’s capital, Doha, the location of the newest spherical of oblique talks between Israel and the Hamas militant group.

His presence means high-level Israeli officers who would want to log out on any settlement are actually concerned.

Only one transient ceasefire has been achieved in 15 months of battle, and that occurred within the earliest weeks of combating. The talks mediated by the US, Egypt and Qatar have repeatedly stalled since then.

Netanyahu has insisted on destroying Hamas’ means to battle in Gaza. Hamas has insisted on a full Israeli troop withdrawal from the largely devastated territory. On Thursday, Gaza’s Well being Ministry mentioned over 46,000 Palestinians have been killed within the battle.

Additionally being despatched to Qatar are the top of Israel’s Shin Guess inside safety company and army and political advisers. 

Netanyahu’s workplace mentioned the choice adopted a gathering along with his defence minister, safety chiefs and negotiators “on behalf of the outgoing and incoming US administrations.”

The workplace additionally launched a photograph exhibiting Netanyahu with President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming particular envoy to the Center East, Steve Witkoff, who was in Qatar this week.

Households of the roughly 100 hostages nonetheless held in Gaza after being seized within the October 7, 2023 militant assault that sparked the battle are urgent Netanyahu to succeed in a deal to deliver their family members dwelling.

The restoration of two hostages’ our bodies prior to now week renewed fears that point is working out. Hamas has mentioned that after months of heavy combating, it is not certain who’s alive or useless.

(With AP inputs)