### High-Level Talks in Doha Aim to Revive Gaza Ceasefire

DOHA, Qatar — In a significant diplomatic move, leaders from Israel's Mossad and the CIA have arrived in Doha to engage in high-stakes discussions aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Mossad chief David Barnea and CIA Director William Burns are set to meet with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, marking the first high-level talks since ceasefire negotiations collapsed this past August.

The immediate push for discussions has been amplified following the recent killing of Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar on October 16. Adding to the urgency, nearly 100 captives remain held in Gaza, putting additional pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from families demanding a deal to secure their release. Over the weekend, Netanyahu faced protests at a memorial for victims of the October 7, 2023 attacks, where demonstrators interrupted his speech, chanting "shame on you."

The Israeli Prime Minister's office confirmed Mossad chief Barnea's return, stating that discussions with mediators and Hamas would continue to assess the feasibility of reinvigorating peace talks. However, truce negotiations have repeatedly met obstacles over a year-long conflict that has claimed the lives of nearly 43,000 Palestinians.

Hamas has stipulated a complete ceasefire as non-negotiable, demanding Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza alongside the release of Palestinian prisoners. However, Netanyahu remains firm on maintaining military control over significant portions of the area, including the Philadelphi and Netzarim Corridors.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant acknowledged the limitations of military measures alone, suggesting that "painful compromises" are necessary to rescue the captives. Similarly, prominent Israeli figures such as Transportation Minister Miri Regev and Foreign Minister Israel Katz have pushed for a deal to release some captives.

On the diplomatic front, Egypt and Qatar's mediation efforts have previously led to a November breakthrough, wherein a prisoner swap resulted in the liberation of around 100 Israeli and 240 Palestinian captives. Currently, Egypt has proposed a two-day ceasefire in exchange for a limited prisoner swap. However, opposition from far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich complicates the fragile negotiations.

Meanwhile, ongoing discussions are not limited to Gaza. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been involved in separate talks with Lebanon's acting Prime Minister Najib Mikati in London, focusing on civilian protection and Hezbollah disarmament. Both nations are experiencing rising tensions amid the conflict spillover.

Qatar University's Noureddine Miladi casts doubt on the outcomes, viewing the negotiations in Doha and Cairo as largely performative without substantial breakthroughs. He voiced skepticism, suggesting that these talks seem more aimed at public relations than delivering tangible results for Palestinians or advancing the release of hostages.

As stakeholders push for a resolution, the reality on the ground remains complex. The hope is that international diplomacy can at least pave the way for temporary relief and long-needed dialogue among the conflicting parties.