A small delegation of families of Israeli hostages flew today (Tuesday) to Doha, where they are expected to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump and the Prime Minister of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. The delegation is led by businessman Eytan Stibbe and aims to advance negotiations for the release of Israeli hostages, according to Channel 12.
Trump’s envoys to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff and Adam Boehler, will also take part in the talks in Qatar. The two recently arrived in Israel following the release of Edan Alexander from Hamas captivity, and emphasized their commitment to bringing home all hostages. Witkoff told the families: “If we didn’t believe there was a chance for progress – we wouldn’t be going to Doha.”
The Trump-Netanyahu Call
The decision to dispatch the Israeli delegation came after a phone call between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Trump. The goal of the talks is to secure a proposed deal including the release of half of the living hostages in exchange for a 40-day ceasefire, the entry of humanitarian aid, and the launch of negotiations to end the war.
Israeli officials have clarified that even if a deal is not reached, the ceasefire will not be violated if hostages are released.
Witkoff and Boehler stressed their full commitment to the return of all hostages—both the living and the fallen. Witkoff told the families that the U.S. administration sees these talks as a real opportunity to secure the release of the remaining hostages, and emphasized that negotiations are continuing despite the challenges.
Witkoff’s post after his meeting with Edan Alexander:
I was honored to meet Edan Alexander today and welcome him home. After months in captivity, the world is inspired by his courage and resilience. His return gives hope to so many. We also had the opportunity to speak with @POTUS, whose leadership made this possible. We remain… pic.twitter.com/9rninnXSJy
— Office of the Special Envoy to the Middle East (@SE_MiddleEast) May 13, 2025
