Israel to Send Delegation to Qatar After Constructive Talks in Washington

Israel will send a delegation to Doha, Qatar, this weekend to advance discussions on the next phase of its ceasefire agreement with Hamas. The decision follows what was described as a “positive and friendly” meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff in Washington on Monday.

The high-level talks, held just before Netanyahu’s scheduled meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump, also included U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, and Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter.

According to the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, the delegation in Doha will focus on “technical details” of the agreement as negotiators work toward implementing phase two of the fragile ceasefire. Upon his return from Washington, Netanyahu will convene Israel’s Security Cabinet to outline the country’s position on the deal’s next steps.

Phase two of the ceasefire-for-hostages deal involves Israel’s complete withdrawal from Gaza in exchange for the release of all remaining hostages and a permanent cessation of hostilities. Israeli intelligence estimates that Hamas is still holding 79 hostages in Gaza, including 76 abducted during the October 7 attacks.

Since the October 7 massacre, 175 of the 251 hostages taken have been either freed or rescued. Additionally, Hamas is believed to be holding the bodies of 35 individuals, including IDF Lt. Hadar Goldin, whose remains were taken in 2014.

Meanwhile, Israel continues to maintain a ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon, while the IDF remains active in dismantling the terror group’s infrastructure in the country’s south. Originally set for 60 days, the agreement has been extended until February 18.

During his extended stay in Washington, Netanyahu met with billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk to discuss deepening U.S.-Israel cooperation in artificial intelligence. The meeting also included David Sacks, a key U.S. administration figure in AI and cryptocurrency policy. This marks Netanyahu’s third meeting with Musk, following prior discussions at Tesla’s California headquarters and Musk’s visit to Israel after the October 7 attacks.

Netanyahu also met with evangelical Christian leaders, including former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, who has been nominated as the next U.S. ambassador to Israel. Israeli U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon praised Huckabee’s selection, calling him “a true friend of Israel and the Jewish people.”

As diplomatic efforts continue, Israel remains steadfast in its mission to bring all hostages home and ensure long-term security. Stay informed about the latest developments share this article and subscribe to our newsletter.