Israel Claims There Are Progress In Hostage Negotiations With Hamas

JAKARTA - Israel and Hamas are progressing in the hostage exchange negotiations, reports Israeli Broadcasting Authority.

The progress was made at a summit in Paris, France, which was attended by Israel, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar.

The Paris summit between Israel, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar regarding the negotiations on the exchange of hostages with Hamas is over, and there is progress in the negotiations," the Israeli government broadcaster quoted an unnamed Israeli source as saying by ANTARA from Anadolu, Monday, January 29.

The summit discussed plans for gradual release of Israelis, while there is still a demand gap between Israel and Hamas.

The parties in the talks discussed a ceasefire (which will last) for approximately two months in exchange for the release of about 100 Israelis held hostage. Priority will be given to children, women and sick people, while Israel releases large numbers of Palestinians detained, "said the source.

During the meeting in Paris, Israel was represented by the head of the Mossad intelligence agency, David Barnea, and the head of Israel's domestic security agency, Shin Bet, Ronen Bar.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said there were still major disagreements.

The two sides will continue to talk about it in the next meeting this week.

Hamas, Qatar, or the US have yet to deliver an official statement regarding the Israeli side.

However, Hamas has repeatedly insisted there will be no hostage exchange talks before a thorough arms deal and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the territory it infiltrated.