Israel’s political leaders steering ceasefire talks frustrate mediators

Netanyahu confidant Ron Dermer slowing Gaza hostage talks, CNN reports

"There is a clear shift in [Israeli] priorities. Negotiations are seemingly being politicized from the Israeli team," CNN quoted a source involved in the talks as saying.

Dermer’s appointment slows hostage talks, sources say

Ron Dermer’s leadership in hostage talks marks a sharp shift from previous intelligence-led efforts, with sources citing stalled progress, political interference, and growing frustration among families of the hostages

Report: Israel-Hamas talks 'seemingly politicized' since Netanyahu confidant took charge

Netanyahu's decision to appoint Ron Dermer as chief negotiator has led to a 'significant difference in momentum,' a source tells CNN

Israel’s political leaders steering ceasefire talks frustrate mediators

When discussions began over releasing Israeli hostages shortly after the October 7 attack by Hamas, the negotiators tasked to strike a deal were mostly intelligence and security professionals. But in February, Israel made an important change that those now involved say has had a profound slowing effect on the discussions to resurrect the broken ceasefire: the file was taken over by the prime minister’s closest political aide, Ron Dermer.

The American press reported that mediators from the United States, Egypt and Qatar were disturbed by Israel’s foot-dragging in negotiations to restore a ceasefire and prisoner swap agreement in Gaza, and that Israel’s lack of clear goals was testing the Washington administration’s patience.

Israel’s political leaders steering ceasefire talks frustrate mediators - Egypt Independent

CNN  —  When discussions began over releasing Israeli hostages shortly after the October 7 attack by Hamas, the negotiators tasked to strike a deal were mostly intelligence and security professionals. But in February, Israel made an important change that those now involved say has had a profound slowing effect on the discussions to resurrect the broken ceasefire: The file was taken over by the prime minister’s closest political aide, Ron Dermer.…