Israel's negotiation team to return after meaningful talks on Gaza ceasefire

Israel's negotiation team to return after 'meaningful' talks on Gaza ceasefire

25 Dec, 2024 8:05 AM

Jerusalem, Dec 25 (IANS) Israel's negotiation team involved in the Gaza ceasefire talks will return to the country from Qatar for "internal consultations" after "meaningful" talks, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement.

The team, which includes senior officials from the Mossad, Shin Bet security agency, and the Israel Defense Forces, has been engaged in a "significant week of negotiations in Qatar," the office said.

"The team is returning for internal consultations in Israel regarding the continuation of negotiations for the return of our hostages," it added.

Israeli and Palestinian media reported that efforts led by Qatari, Egyptian, and US mediators have shown progress, though a breakthrough remains elusive, Xinhua news agency reported.

The length of the ceasefire has been a key sticking point in previous failed negotiation attempts. Hamas seeks to end the war entirely, while Israel insists on removing Hamas' control over Gaza before any resolution and maintaining a military presence in the Palestinian enclave even after the ceasefire.

Hamas launched an assault on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing about 1,200 people and kidnapping approximately 250 others.

About 100 Israeli and foreign hostages are still being held by Hamas in Gaza, and dozens of them are believed to be dead, according to Israeli estimates.

Israel responded with an extensive military campaign, reducing much of the Gaza Strip to rubble. More than 45,300 people have been killed by the Israeli strikes in Gaza, according to the Gaza-based health authorities.

Hamas launched an assault on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing about 1,200 people and kidnapping approximately 250 others. About 100 Israeli and foreign hostages are still being held by Hamas in Gaza, and dozens of them are believed to be dead, according to Israeli estimates.

Israel responded with an extensive military campaign, reducing much of the Gaza Strip to rubble. At least 45,317 people have been killed by the Israeli strikes in Gaza, according to an update released on Monday by the Gaza-based health authorities.

Courtesy Media Group: IANS

Words: 352

Disclaimer The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by geo24news.com and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.

If you are not willing to accept this disclaimer then we recommend reading news post in its original language.