Israeli Spy Chief in Paris for Gaza Ceasefire Talks

A team from Israel, including the Mossad’s chief David Barnea and the head of the domestic Shin Bet security agency, Ronen Bar, landed in Paris on Friday to facilitate discussions aimed at establishing a ceasefire in Gaza, according to statements from an Israeli source. These discussions are a continuation of efforts to halt the ongoing conflict, highlighted by a ceasefire in late November that led to the release of hostages and prisoners on both sides. This delegation’s visit follows a series of meetings, including a notable session in Paris involving leaders from the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, focusing on a potential break in hostilities. The proposed ceasefire plan, as reported, suggests a six-week halt in the conflict in exchange for the release of a significant number of Palestinian prisoners and the remaining hostages held by Hamas. The dialogue also extended to Egypt with Hamas’s leader, Ismail Haniyeh, contributing to discussions centered on ending hostilities, resettling displaced individuals, and negotiating a prisoner exchange. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has consistently expressed a firm stance against the demands from Hamas, emphasizing a commitment to continue the military campaign until Hamas is defeated. This meeting in Paris, highlighted by an indication from Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant about expanding negotiation capabilities, is part of ongoing international efforts to find a resolution to the conflict that erupted following an attack by Hamas on October 7, leading to significant casualties and a humanitarian crisis in Gaza.