Israeli delegation returns from Qatar after ceasefire talks
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (2-L)) heads the weekly cabinet meeting at the Defence Ministry in Tel Aviv on January 7, 2024. (AFP Photo)
An Israeli delegation that participated in ceasefire negotiations in Doha over the weekend is returning home, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s spokesperson said Monday.
No details were provided on the progress of the discussions.
Ceasefire negotiations in Qatar
The Israeli delegation engaged in talks regarding the second phase of a Gaza ceasefire agreement with Hamas. These negotiations follow a previous agreement brokered in January that established an initial truce and prisoner exchange.
Israeli officials have not commented on whether progress was made in the latest round of discussions. Meanwhile, Israel’s Security Cabinet is set to meet on Tuesday to review the current state of the ceasefire negotiations and consider the next steps in the process.
Trump’s controversial remarks on Gaza
On Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump made headlines with comments suggesting he was committed to “buying and owning” Gaza. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One en route to New Orleans, he stated:
“I’m committed to buying and owning Gaza. As far as us rebuilding it, we may give it to other states in the Middle East to build sections of it, other people may do it, through our auspices. But we’re committed to owning it, taking it, and making sure that Hamas doesn’t move back.”
Trump further described Gaza as a “demolition site,” asserting that any remaining infrastructure would be removed entirely. His comments were met with swift condemnation from Palestinian officials.
Hamas and international responses
Ezzat El Rashq, a senior member of Hamas’ political bureau, strongly rejected Trump’s statements, stating that “Gaza is not a property to be sold and bought. It is an integral part of our occupied Palestinian land.”
Trump’s remarks also drew criticism from various international leaders. Saudi Arabia and Jordan have both rejected the idea, with Jordan’s King Abdullah reportedly preparing to express his concerns directly to Trump during a planned meeting in Washington on February 11.
Jordanian officials argue that such proposals could destabilize the region further and lead to increased radicalization.
Israel’s next steps in the ceasefire process
While Israel has not officially commented on Trump’s statements, it remains focused on negotiations for an extended ceasefire.
The proposed three-phase truce aims to facilitate the release of more Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian detainees held by Israel.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog confirmed that Trump is expected to hold meetings with key Arab leaders, including Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, though specific dates have not been announced.
