NEW YORK — Arab mediators have not been substantively advancing hostage talks since Israel’s September 9 strike targeting Hamas leaders in Doha, an Arab diplomat tells The Times of Israel.
Before resuming negotiations, Qatar is seeking some sort of apology from Israel over the strike, the diplomat says, acknowledging that Jerusalem has indicated little interest in offering such a gesture.
Meanwhile, Egypt is holding off on trying to mediate independently, believing that Qatar’s role is critical and that the effort should be advanced jointly, the diplomat says.
The diplomat says Hamas has expressed willingness to resume negotiations, pointing to a letter presenting another phased ceasefire offer that the group plans to send to US President Donald Trump.
The Arab diplomat expresses hope that the freeze in negotiations will be lifted in the coming days.
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