Israel and Hamas have reached a critical breakthrough in their efforts to negotiate a ceasefire, with discussions aiming to end over 15 months of conflict and secure the release of remaining hostages.
The talks in Qatar, facilitated by international mediators, involved envoys from U.S. President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump, signalling a high-stakes diplomatic push.
The negotiations extended into the early hours of Monday, with sources indicating that a resolution could be imminent. A Reuters insider said, “The next 24 hours will be pivotal to reaching the deal.” While Hamas has expressed willingness to release a group of over 30 hostages, the number of those still alive remains uncertain.
Hamas also proposed the release of its members detained by Israel, reaffirming its commitment to the exchange. In a statement cited by the Times of Israel, Hamas declared, “We renew our pledge with our steadfast and patient people and with our heroic prisoners in the prisons, and we affirm that their freedom is near.”
According to sources, Steve Witkoff, who will become the U.S. envoy under Trump’s administration next week, participated in the discussions—Israeli officials, including Mossad chief David Barnea and Israel Defense Forces hostage negotiator Maj. Gen. Nitzan Alon also attended the Doha talks, underscoring the importance of the negotiations.
President-elect Trump has set a firm stance on the issue, with his upcoming inauguration on January 20 as a deadline for the deal. Trump has previously warned Hamas that failure to release hostages would result in severe consequences, describing it as “hell to pay.”
In a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday, President Biden emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian aid and secure the hostages’ release. The White House reiterated Biden’s call for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza to enable these objectives.
Currently, around 100 hostages remain in Hamas custody, including seven American citizens. Officials have expressed concerns that up to half of them may have perished during the prolonged captivity since the October 7, 2023, terrorist attack on Israel.
The next phase of talks is expected to determine whether the recent progress can be translated into a binding agreement. A binding agreement would give hope to those affected by the prolonged conflict and humanitarian crisis.
