Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his hope that an upcoming meeting with US President Donald Trump could facilitate progress on a Gaza ceasefire agreement. This statement followed the deployment of Israeli negotiators to Doha for indirect discussions with Hamas.
The Israeli leader is facing increasing pressure to bring an end to the ongoing conflict, which is nearing its 22nd month. Netanyahu is scheduled to meet with President Trump on Monday, as the US President has recently intensified efforts to end the fighting.
Before departing for Washington on Israel's state jet, Netanyahu stated that his government was working towards the agreed-upon deal. He also mentioned that he had sent a team to Doha with specific instructions and believed the meeting with Trump could significantly aid in advancing the deal.
Previously, Netanyahu had characterized Hamas's response to a US-backed ceasefire proposal as containing unacceptable demands. Later in the day, a Palestinian official confirmed that indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas had commenced in Qatar, focusing on implementation mechanisms and a potential hostage exchange.
7 Comments
Karamba
Negotiations in Qatar? What will this negotiation consider to give Palestinians hope?
Habibi
Sending a team to Doha is a sign of commitment. Israel is serious about ending the conflict.
Mariposa
Negotiating in Doha is a smart move. Let's hope Hamas will finally come to the table in good faith.
Donatello
Netanyahu is doing his best to protect Israeli citizens. The pressure must be immense.
Leonardo
Sending negotiators after all this time feels like a PR stunt. What about real concessions?
Loubianka
It's good Netanyahu is being proactive - hope Trump's meeting assists him in bringing about peace negotiations! The conflict is taking too long".
BuggaBoom
This gives me the impression and is just another stall tactic - hoping for a better outcome politically.