Senior Israeli Official Labels Hamas Demands Unrealistic

In preparation for ongoing negotiations in Qatar, the war cabinet is set to convene tomorrow evening, followed by an anticipated discussion within the political-security cabinet later in the evening. The delegation, spearheaded by the Mossad Chief, is slated to depart for Doha despite the extensive conditions set forth by Hamas.

Mossad Chief Heading to Qatar; War Cabinet to Discuss Delegation's Authority

A high-ranking Israeli official has dismissed Hamas' demands as unrealistic, characterizing the proposed deal as unfavorable. The Head of Mossad is scheduled to travel to Qatar on Monday, while the war cabinet plans to convene tomorrow to deliberate on the authority to be granted to the leading negotiating delegation.

Senior Israeli Official Deems Hamas Demands Unrealistic, Labels Proposed Deal as Unfavorable

 Reflecting on Hamas' response, a senior Israeli official expressed skepticism, stating, "It would be a very unfavorable agreement, and thus, it will not materialize."

The war cabinet is scheduled to convene at 18:00 tomorrow, followed by the political-security cabinet meeting at 19:30. These meetings aim to delineate the mandate for the Israeli delegation, outlining the parameters within which negotiations in Qatar will occur.

Key Points from Hamas' Response:

While certain aspects of Hamas' response are viewed as conducive to potential agreements, others pose significant challenges from Israel's perspective. Of particular concern is Hamas' insistence on the IDF withdrawal from the southern corridor of Gaza City, hindering Palestinian movement to the north of the Strip. Additionally, Israel opposes Hamas' call for a permanent ceasefire in the second phase of the deal.

Israeli authorities estimate that without alterations to Hamas' positions, progress towards a deal in Jerusalem is unlikely, with prospects of public and political discourse in Israel diminishing. Commenting on the negotiations, a knowledgeable Israeli official emphasized, "Hamas has submitted its response, but this marks the extent of progress. These demands are excessive and lack foundation, offering no viable path forward."

Furthermore, the official underscored concerns regarding the proposed deal, emphasizing its adverse implications beyond prisoner releases and hostage exchanges. "This deal is unfavorable, not only due to the terms for prisoner release but also due to Hamas' desire to undermine war achievements. We will not entertain such terms. It would be a highly unfavorable agreement, and as such, it will not come to fruition."