In the past 24 hours, Israel’s political leadership decided to recall all members of the Israeli delegation from Qatar, after several senior officials had already returned to Israel a few days earlier. The directive, reported today (Thursday) by Moriah Asraf of Channel 13 News, includes the working-level staff as well, in light of the deadlock in negotiations over the release of the hostages.
“Hamas continues to cling to its refusal”
Two days ago, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed the senior negotiating team to return from Doha, leaving a smaller Israeli team in Qatar in order to demonstrate to the Americans that Israel remains willing to advance the deal.
The Prime Minister’s Office clarified: “Israel agrees to the American proposal for the return of the hostages, which is based on the Witkoff outline. This proposal was recently delivered to Hamas through the mediators, but so far, it continues to cling to its refusal.”
After approximately a week of intense negotiations in Doha, the senior negotiating team returned to Israel for consultations. For now, only the working-level staff remained in Qatar.
“Twenty hostages confirmed alive”
In a press conference held yesterday, the Prime Minister addressed the fate of the hostages directly, stating: “There are twenty hostages confirmed to be alive, and the circumstances of death for up to thirty-eight others are still being investigated.”
His comments came in response to the families’ demand for accurate and up-to-date information, and highlight the deep complexity of the humanitarian issue. Netanyahu noted that Israel has achieved significant operational progress in Gaza and added, “It is likely we eliminated Mohammed Sinwar.” He stressed that the mission is not yet complete but emphasized that the state is operating according to a clear and structured plan.
Netanyahu also stated that Israel is prepared for a temporary ceasefire if the opportunity arises, but made it clear: “The emphasis is on ‘temporary’ – the fighting will continue until all our objectives are achieved.” He concluded with a message of determination and resolve: “We have achieved a great deal, but the road ahead remains. We will do everything to bring our sons home – and ensure Israel’s security for generations to come.”
