Trump aides ask Qatar to recall ousted Hamas chiefs to revive hostage talks - media

At the request of officials from US President-elect Donald Trump's transition team, Qatar has summoned Hamas leaders back to Doha to resume hostage negotiations.

Qatar had expelled these leaders in late October after the Biden administration requested their removal due to Hamas's refusal to engage in ceasefire and hostage release talks, Caliber.Az reports citing İsraeli media.

Qatar maintains that the expulsion was a unilateral decision made to pause its mediation efforts until both sides showed willingness to negotiate. Following their removal, the Hamas leaders fled to Türkiye, which also has close ties with the group, although the Biden administration condemned Türkiye's decision to host them.

After Trump's election victory, his team, including newly appointed Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, conveyed to Qatar that the hostage situation must be resolved before January 20. Trump’s aides emphasized the importance of Qatar's mediation in securing a deal, leading to the return of Hamas leaders to Doha for negotiations. However, this return is seen as temporary, strictly for the purpose of resuming talks on the hostages.

Qatar has been working with the US and Egypt on indirect talks between Israel and Hamas to end the war and secure the release of hostages. These efforts led to a brief ceasefire in November 2023, during which over 100 hostages were freed. However, subsequent talks have stalled, and more hostages remain in Gaza.

Meanwhile, Israeli officials indicated that Egypt had proposed a new ceasefire plan, but there are conflicting reports suggesting that it may actually be an Israeli proposal passed to Egypt. Netanyahu's aides have expressed optimism, while some Israeli officials and Arab diplomats argue that Hamas's refusal to compromise could hinder progress.

As negotiations continue, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with Hamas leaders in Doha to discuss the hostage crisis.

By Vafa Guliyeva