Hamas absent from talks as Israeli team given more leeway than ever before and international pressure mounting
Israel, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have resumed intensive ceasefire negotiations in Doha. However, Hamas, the primary belligerent in the conflict, has chosen not to participate in this round of talks, citing objections to Israel’s latest conditions.
Israel’s delegation, which includes Mossad Director David Barnea and Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar, arrived in Doha on August 15 for what is being described as a crucial attempt to finalize a ceasefire agreement. The talks are being facilitated by CIA Director William Burns, Egyptian intelligence chief Abbas Kamel, and Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. These discussions are particularly critical as they aim not only to halt hostilities but also to address the issue of hostages and prisoners, a key sticking point in previous negotiations.
The absence of Hamas from the talks reflects their dissatisfaction with Israel’s proposed conditions. Hamas has indicated that it prefers to work within the framework suggested by U.S. President Joe Biden rather than enter fresh negotiations with Israel’s latest demands. They have suggested that they might rejoin the discussions early next week if the mediators reach an acceptable plan.
On the Israeli side, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is closely monitoring the talks from Jerusalem, where he has reportedly given negotatiators more leeway to reach a deal. But he insists on at least 33 live hostages in the first round of the deal and also ways to ensure that Israel retains control over the northern and southern sides of the Strip, with movement controls in the middle.
The absence of Hamas from the talks casts doubt on the prospects for success of the negotiations. Some observers fear that without Hamas’s participation, any agreement reached may lack the necessary buy-in from all sides to be sustainable.
The situation remains fluid, with Israel’s security cabinet expected to convene later tonight to evaluate the latest developments from Doha and decide on further steps. The international community, particularly the United States and Egypt, is pressing for an agreement to prevent further escalation, especially with the looming threat of Iranian retaliation over the conflict.
The talks are seen as a last-ditch effort to avoid a broader regional conflict, but the path to a durable ceasefire remains fraught with challenges as both sides hold firm to their demands. The negotiations are likely to extend beyond the scheduled one-day session, with all parties aware that time is running out to prevent the conflict from spiraling out of control.
Hamas wants its way, and makes no concessions, a Muslim “negotiating” hallmark! It’s past time Israel tells them “no way!”, especially to prisoners convicted of crimes in exchange for hostages kidnapped unlawful!y! The 2 are in no way equivalents, and should not be treated as such.
You’re exactly right, Sandra!