Mossad Director David Barnea met with Qatar’s prime minister in Doha Thursday, sparking speculation about renewed hostage talks. Israeli officials insisted the trip was “routine,” not tied to negotiations, but admitted Barnea reiterated that a partial hostage deal is off the table.
Israel has shifted strategy after approving plans to invade Gaza City. Officials now say they seek only a comprehensive deal: release of all hostages, Gaza’s demilitarization, and a new governing authority not linked to Hamas.
Still, Egypt is pressing for a temporary 60-day ceasefire—with hostage and prisoner exchanges, plus unrestricted humanitarian aid—as a pathway to a longer truce. Hamas reportedly submitted new demands this week, including written guarantees that Israel will not seize Gaza.
The U.S. and regional mediators remain engaged, but Israel signals it’s ready for a military solution if talks stall.
For the hostage families, time is running out. Demonstrations outside the Kirya in Tel Aviv demand action, while officials debate whether the next step is negotiation—or war.
