Israel is not actively participating in ongoing negotiations in Doha regarding a potential hostage deal, according to Israeli officials, despite Arab media reports of progress.
The talks, involving Egypt, Qatar and Hamas, reportedly include Hamas agreeing to release five live hostages in exchange for a 50-day ceasefire. Israeli officials insist on the release of 10 hostages, based on a framework proposed by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, and say any deal is unlikely before the Eid al-Fitr holiday beginning Sunday.
However, sources say efforts are underway to reach an agreement before Passover. “There’s a chance something could come together,” a senior official said.