The Israeli war cabinet has unanimously voted to send a delegation to Paris to engage in high-level discussions aimed at securing a hostage deal and a truce in the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza, the Times of Israel reported on Thursday. This move follows reports that Hamas has shown flexibility regarding the terms of a potential framework deal. Additionally, the United States has been actively pressing for an agreement.
US reportedly urges Israel to bring officials for Paris hostage talks
President Joe Biden’s top Middle East adviser, Brett McGurk, has encouraged Israel to participate in the upcoming hostage negotiation talks in Paris, Axios reported on Thursday, citing three sources with knowledge of the matter. This initiative is part of a broader US strategy to secure a deal before Ramadan, aiming for a temporary ceasefire during the holy month. However, significant challenges remain as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains a strict negotiation stance. The report coincides with a letter from thirteen Jewish House Democrats to President Biden, advocating for exhaustive efforts to facilitate a ceasefire and secure the release of all hostages. NN: For a fact high level negotiations have begun in Paris.