Netanyahu Sets Red Line on Hamas Deal as Qatar and US Work Towards a Compromise

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has drawn a red line on the possibility of reaching a new hostage deal with Hamas, emphasizing that agreeing to certain conditions presented by the terrorist organization would render the sacrifices of Israeli fighters in vain. Despite these assertions, sources in Jerusalem suggest ongoing efforts by Qatar and the United States to find compromise formulas for a potential deal.

Contrary to Netanyahu's statements, insiders claim that there is still a chance for progress, with Qatar and the US actively working to develop a compromise. Mossad head Dedi Barnea is set to update the war management cabinet on the status of contacts for a new kidnapping deal. However, so far, attempts to develop a Qatari outline have not seen success.

The impasse revolves around key conditions set by both Israel and Hamas. Israel demands the continuation of the war after the deal, while Hamas insists on a complete withdrawal of the IDF from Gaza and an end to the conflict. Defense Minister Yoav Galant, after meeting with families of abductees, expressed optimism about ongoing operations in Khan Yunis contributing to achieving overarching goals in the conflict.

US President Joe Biden's emissary is engaging in talks in Cairo and Doha to explore potential contacts for a new deal. Israel sees the blurring of the deal's outline as beneficial, allowing for a prolonged truce without officially ending the war.

Netanyahu, in a recorded statement, reiterated his commitment to returning all abductees home, rejecting Hamas' terms of surrender. Reports suggest a proposed 90-day plan involving a temporary halt to hostilities, exchange of prisoners, withdrawal of forces, and increased humanitarian aid.

Hamas media advisor Taher al-Nunu indicated that no substantial progress has been made, and Israel has not officially responded to the proposed plan. Israel remains steadfast in its position that it will not agree to terms leading to a cessation of the war.

The Qatari-American outline comprises three phases, involving the release of specific groups of hostages in exchange for prisoners, followed by subsequent phases releasing more hostages and prisoners.

As families of the abductees intensify their pleas, waiting for official confirmation from Qatar that medicines have reached the hostages, tensions remain high. Some families have taken to demonstrating near Netanyahu's residence, urging immediate action to bring back their loved ones.