Israeli official critiques Mossad Chief's upcoming Qatar trip amid hostage negotiations

A senior Israeli official described the upcoming trip of Mossad chief David Barnea to Qatar next week as “throwing sand in the eyes of the public and the families of the hostages,” N12 reported on Friday evening.

The official, who is familiar with the details of the hostage deal, emphasized, “If there is no flexibility, there will be no deal,” reiterating sentiments concerning previous negotiations that fell through, N12 noted.

Barnea is set to travel to Doha on Sunday with a commitment to goodwill, yet he lacks a mandate to alter conditions regarding the Philadelphi Corridor and Netzarim Corridor. Security officials believe that following the elimination of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, conditions are optimal for negotiation, although they acknowledge the ongoing challenges in Gaza.

Ronen Bar, head of the Shin Bet security services speaks at the annual Cyber Week, at the Tel Aviv University, on June 27, 2023. (credit: AVSHALOM SASSONI/FLASH90)

In addition, there is an initiative led by Ronen Bar, referred to as the “small deal,” which aims to establish a two-week ceasefire in exchange for the release of a few hostages. This effort is meant to generate momentum between the parties but has not yet been brought to a vote in the cabinet, N12 noted in their report.

Divided opinions on hostage deal

Opposition to the small deal came from National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who labeled the proposal “a gift to Hamas while Israel is in a momentum.” On the other hand, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Transportation Minister Miri Regev, Foreign Minister Israel Katz, and Prime Minister Deputy Yariv Levin supported the advancement of the deal.

N12 further reported that US officials were calling for at least the appearance of negotiations to secure a peaceful resolution before the November elections. Sources within Hamas indicated they would not accept a short ceasefire in exchange for the release of a limited number of hostages, but professionals in the field suggest there remains a willingness for dialogue.

The Prime Minister’s Office released a statement late Saturday last week, noting that “the cabinet, led by Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu, has instructed the initiation of moves to promote a deal for the release of hostages.”