Negotiators discussed what they’re calling a “mini” ceasefire proposal in Doha, which, according to a Jerusalem Post report, would enable a short-term pause in hostilities between Israel and Hamas with the release of a limited number of hostages.
The talks involved CIA Director William Burns, Mossad Chief David Barnea, and Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed Al-Thani, marking the first discussions on a temporary ceasefire in two months.
According to Axios, the ceasefire could last up to 28 days with the exchange of eight hostages by Hamas. A source confirmed to the Jerusalem Post that the Mossad chief’s proposal aligned with this direction.
The Times of Israel reports that the negotiations aim for a month-long ceasefire and the release of 11-14 hostages. Some outlets indicate that Qatari officials pushed for this proposal, while Egypt suggested a two-day ceasefire with the exchange of four hostages by Hamas.
As of late August, hostage negotiations focused on a three-phase agreement for the release of 101 captives, with an initial release of up to 32 hostages in exchange for a six-week ceasefire, with subsequent phases for the rest.
However, the execution of six hostages by Hamas in late August ended these talks, and the U.S. accused Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar of breaking the agreement.