While Hamas has confirmed its commitment to the return of Palestinian displaced persons to northern Gaza, a notable flexibility seems to be emerging within the Israeli government. There has been a significant change in the stance of ministers in Benjamin Netanyahu's government, which may allow progress in finalizing a prisoner exchange deal with Hamas. This change was evident in a meeting held two days ago, although Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Galant have not altered their positions, according to the Israeli Broadcasting Authority.
The report highlighted that "all ministers, apart from the Defense Minister and the Prime Minister, expressed support for flexibility with Hamas." The head of the Mossad, David Barnea, who is leading the negotiations, emphasized that the crucial factor in the deal is the agreement regarding the return of northern Gaza residents to the areas from which they were displaced.
Transportation Minister Miri Regev stated, "Every possible effort must be made to return the kidnapped, even at the expense of the return of Gaza residents to the north." Meanwhile, a knowledgeable official on the negotiations clarified that "the goals of the war were set to create conditions for the return of Israeli prisoners, which is happening now, and we must take advantage of that without wasting more time."
Conversely, Netanyahu opposed the flexibility of negotiating terms with Hamas during the meeting, arguing against yielding to the demands made by the movement. Galant also opposed expanding the negotiating team’s powers with Hamas, fearing it could lead to the erosion of the war's achievements.
In this context, Netanyahu instructed Shin Bet chief Ronan Bar to engage in talks in Cairo, while Mossad chief David Barnea headed to Qatar for discussions. It is noteworthy that previous talks held in Doha between the two sides had seen a glimmer of optimism over a week ago; however, hopes have recently diminished as details and outstanding conditions have been delved into. Among the conditions complicating the negotiations are the return of displaced persons to the north, a complete Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, and a permanent ceasefire.
