Israel announced it will send a delegation to Doha on Monday to advance ceasefire and prisoner swap negotiations in Gaza.
The decision follows an invitation from mediators, primarily the United States, as efforts continue to stabilize the region.
The talks are part of a three-phase agreement, the first of which concluded on March 1.
Despite the planned transition to the second phase, negotiations have stalled due to disagreements between Israel and Hamas.
Tel Aviv has accepted a ceasefire extension proposal, but Hamas has rejected the plan, prolonging uncertainty.
Israeli state television Kan, citing official sources, reported that the U.S. is pushing for a two-month ceasefire extension in exchange for the release of 10 Israeli prisoners held by Hamas.
These negotiations, facilitated by Qatari and Egyptian mediators, have proceeded without Israel’s direct involvement.
The initial ceasefire and prisoner swap agreement, which took effect on January 19, led to significant developments.
On January 27, the Netzarim Corridor was opened, enabling Palestinian movement between Gaza’s north and south.
The Israeli army withdrew from the corridor on February 9, while the Rafah Border Gate reopened on February 1 to evacuate the sick and injured.
During the first phase, over 1,700 Palestinian prisoners were released from Israeli custody, while Hamas returned 33 Israeli captives—25 alive and eight deceased. Additionally, five Thai prisoners were freed.
Despite expectations for the second phase to begin on February 3, Israeli authorities delayed its launch.
After the first phase concluded, U.S. Middle East Special Representative Steve Witkoff proposed extending it.
While Israel endorsed the plan, Hamas rejected it, leading to a halt in humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza.
As tensions persist, international mediators hope renewed negotiations in Doha will break the deadlock and prevent further escalation.
