U.S. President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, is set to travel to Doha on Tuesday evening to join Qatari and Egyptian mediators as well as Israel’s and Hamas’s negotiation teams in an effort to secure a new deal for the release of hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza. The discussions are expected to focus first on the negotiation framework. In this context, an Israeli source claimed that some progress has been made in talks being held by the U.S. with Hamas, according to a report published this morning (Sunday) on Israeli broadcasting network, Kan 11.
Israel’s Delegation to Doha
Yesterday (Monday), the Prime Minister’s Office announced that “Israel has responded to the mediators’ invitation, sending a delegation to Doha on Monday in an effort to advance negotiations.” The announcement was made following a phone assessment led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The delegation, which includes a representative from the ISA (the Shin Bet), diplomatic advisor Ophir Falk, and Coordinator for the Hostages and the Missing Persons Gal Hirsch, is expected to stay in Qatar for about two days in an effort to move negotiations forward.
Despite the well-known challenges of Qatari mediation, an Israeli source emphasized that “the wealthy emirate still has the most significant influence over Hamas.” Meanwhile, a Hamas official confirmed that representatives of the terror group recently met with Adam Boehler, the U.S. government’s envoy for hostage affairs, underscoring the international involvement in efforts to reach an agreement.
“Witkoff Framework” on the Table
The discussions will focus on the “Witkoff Framework,” a proposal accepted by Israel, under which half of the living hostages and the bodies of fallen captives would be released on the first day of the deal, with the remaining hostages freed in exchange for a ceasefire. Israeli officials acknowledge that some degree of flexibility may be necessary if negotiations move in a positive direction.
At the same time, Jerusalem is aware of the risks posed by the current ceasefire, which allows Hamas to regroup in preparation for a potential resumption of hostilities. A security official explained, “Despite the risks, this period of calm is important for Israel, which continues its military build-up and strategic planning in case fighting resumes.”
“Close Coordination with the U.S. Administration”
Israeli officials emphasize that there is ongoing coordination with the U.S. administration, particularly with the team of President Donald Trump. Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, is actively promoting the framework designed to secure the release of the hostages.
A senior Israeli official stated, “Israel does not seek further escalation, but if necessary, we will continue to act decisively against terror.”
As previously reported, White House envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff is expected to join the Israeli delegation’s talks in Doha on Tuesday evening, reinforcing efforts to secure a hostage release deal.
The IDF is prepared for every scenario, including a return to fighting
According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, the IDF has made it clear to the political leadership that any renewed offensive plan for Gaza will be under significant operational limitations, especially in areas where hostages are likely to be present. Several brigades, including reserve units, have already prepared according to a ground attack plan for the Gaza Strip, which will combine powerful air assaults from the Air Force.
Hamas, on its part, has reorganized in recent weeks for combat against Israel following the end of Phase 1 of the ceasefire. Intelligence assessments indicate that the terrorist organization is learning from previous rounds of fighting, has set up dozens of new explosive sites, deployed thousands of terrorists in the city of Gaza after returning from the southern Strip, calibrated rocket launchers, and restructured its fighting frameworks.
Focusing on the Release of Hostages and Control of the Southern Border
Israeli security officials emphasize that Israel is not interested in escalation for the sake of escalation. However, it will utilize all necessary means to protect its citizens and bring the hostages home. An Israeli security source told the Wall Street Journal: “Israel keeps all options on the table, but still prefers a diplomatic solution if possible.”
