Israel – Times of Israel, Aug. 13, 2025
Netanyahu says partial hostage release deals are ‘behind us’ as Arab diplomat tells ToI that mediators are expected to push 60-day truce that will turn into a comprehensive ceasefire.
Israel may send negotiators to Doha this week for meetings on a comprehensive agreement for the release of hostages held by Hamas and a ceasefire in Gaza, according to an Israeli television report on Tuesday, as Arab states and the US also push for a final deal to end the 22-month war.
The efforts by Israel, the United States and a few Middle Eastern countries signaled that officials have not given up on the prospect of an agreement despite a recent breakdown in negotiations over a temporary ceasefire last month. After the talks collapsed, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government approved a plan to conquer Gaza City beginning in October, with the operation expected to continue for months.
But that plan also appears to have created renewed urgency — as well as a two-month window — for renewed talks. Those involved have reportedly acknowledged that the gaps between Israel and Hamas remain vast, but efforts in recent days demonstrate that negotiations could restart.
