
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a five-hour discussion today (Sunday) about the hostage deal, together with the negotiating team and senior security officials.
Upon conclusion of the discussion, the Prime Minister's Office updated that Netanyahu had instructed a negotiating delegation to be sent to Doha, likely headed by Mossad head Dedi Barnea - this coming Thursday.
Defense Minister Yoav Galant responded: "I congratulate the Prime Minister on the decision to send the negotiating team to renew the talks - in order to return our hostages home. Prime Minister, good luck on your important trip to the US - our central ally.".
Gallant added: "In light of the operational achievements in the war, the conditions have been created and there is a limited window of opportunity for an outline for the release of the hostages. Even if there are differences of opinion, the entire security establishment supports you in the mission of bringing about an agreement.".
The discussion with the Prime Minister lasted about five hours and included strategic aspects for the continuation of military activity. Kan News reported that, according to sources familiar with the matter, one of the issues on the agenda was the implications of a deal to release the hostages on what is happening in the north and against the Houthis.
The entire security leadership participated in the discussion - Mossad head Dedi Barnea, Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, Defense Minister Yoav Galant, and Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer.
Retired Major General Nitzan Alon also participated in the parts specifically related to the Israeli proposal for the deal.