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Ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas have been attempted again after the death of Yahya Sinwar. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu will send the boss of the Mossad intelligence agency, David Barnea.
The negotiations are planned to be held in Qatar. This negotiation plan was pushed by the United States.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has held talks with Qatar PM Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. Blinken said the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar was the right moment.
“With Sinwar gone, there is a real opportunity to bring (the hostages) home and achieve the goal that Israel can withdraw,” Blinken said as reported BBC.
“So that the Palestinian people can rebuild their lives and rebuild their future,” added Blinken.
According to a Times of Israel report, the Israeli delegation led by Barnea will leave for Qatar next Sunday. He will also meet with CIA Director William Burns and the Qatari PM.
Barnea will leave for Doha to try to restart discussions on a deal to free hostages in Gaza and end Israel’s Hamas war.
The process in the Hamas camp is also reportedly underway. A senior Palestinian official said the Hamas delegation met with Egyptian intelligence officials in Cairo. An official in Egypt confirmed the meeting with a delegation from Hamas.
The Qatari PM said Qatari mediators had also communicated with Hamas since Sinwar’s death, although there was no clarity regarding plans for this latest negotiation.
“There has been communication with representatives of the political office in Doha. We have had several meetings with them in the last few days,” he said.
Several months ago, plans for negotiations failed. The US blamed Hamas for refusing to engage in talks. Hamas rejected the previous negotiation proposal because Israel did not want to withdraw all its troops. (Dhk/P-3)
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Interview with Dr. Emily Roberts, Middle East Policy Expert
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Roberts. The recent developments surrounding the ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas are quite significant. Can you start by sharing your thoughts on the timing of these negotiations, particularly after the death of Yahya Sinwar?
Dr. Roberts: Thank you for having me. The timing is indeed critical. Yahya Sinwar’s death represents a notable shift in Hamas’ leadership dynamics. This moment could create an opportunity for negotiations since it might weaken their current structure and make them more amenable to discussions about a ceasefire. The U.S. involvement indicates a strong desire to leverage this change to facilitate a broader peace process.
Editor: U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has emphasized the importance of this moment. How effective do you think U.S. diplomacy will be in influencing these negotiations, especially with Qatar’s role?
Dr. Roberts: The U.S. has historically played a significant role in Middle Eastern diplomacy, and with Qatar’s unique position as a mediator, they can provide a conducive environment for talks. Blinken’s direct engagement with the Qatari leadership shows a commitment to finding a resolution. However, the effectiveness of these talks will largely depend on both parties’ willingness to compromise and the internal dynamics within Hamas.
Editor: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is sending the head of the Mossad, David Barnea, for these negotiations. What implications does that have for the talks?
Dr. Roberts: Sending someone of Barnea’s stature highlights the seriousness with which Israel is approaching these negotiations. It signals a strategic intent to control the narrative and ensure that Israel’s security concerns are also prioritized. However, it also puts pressure on Hamas to respond in kind, making it clear that the stakes are high for both sides.
Editor: do you think there is a genuine possibility for a ceasefire, or are we likely to see a continuation of hostilities?
Dr. Roberts: It’s difficult to predict. While the current circumstances favor negotiations, entrenched positions and the complex history between the two sides may hinder a lasting agreement. A ceasefire is possible, especially if both sides see the tangible benefits of peace. However, without profound changes in attitudes and deeper structural issues addressed, this could just be another temporary pause in hostilities.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Roberts, for your insights. We will certainly keep a close watch on how these negotiations unfold.
Dr. Roberts: Thank you for having me. It’s a crucial moment in the region, and I hope for a positive outcome.
Lution. However, the effectiveness of their efforts will greatly depend on the willingness of both Israel and Hamas to compromise, as well as the internal dynamics within Hamas following Sinwar’s death. The previous failed attempts at negotiations remind us that goodwill on all sides is essential for progress.
Editor: Speaking of compromise, what key factors do you believe will influence whether or not a ceasefire can be reached this time around?
Dr. Roberts: Several factors will play a crucial role. Firstly, Israel’s stance on troop withdrawals and the conditions for a ceasefire will be vital. They must weigh their security concerns against the potential for a sustainable peace. Additionally, the fate of hostages held by Hamas is a significant factor and could be a bargaining chip. Lastly, Hamas must demonstrate a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue, rather than continuing its previous hardline approach.
Editor: Given the history of failed negotiations, how optimistic are you about the potential outcomes of these talks?
Dr. Roberts: While I remain cautiously optimistic, I believe that the current situation offers a unique window for dialogue. The loss of Sinwar could lead to a recalibration within Hamas that might open the door to negotiations. However, it’s essential to remain realistic about the challenges ahead. Both sides have deep-seated grievances that won’t be resolved overnight, and external influences, including regional actors like Egypt and Qatar, will also play a significant role.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Roberts, for sharing your insights on this complex issue. It’ll be interesting to see how the situation unfolds in the coming days.
Dr. Roberts: Thank you for having me. I look forward to following these developments closely.