Israel Accelerates Secret Direct Talks with Hamas After Kidnapping Murder

Direct secret communications between Israel and Hamas were established to bypass Qatari mediation and intensified following the murder of six hostages in Rafah in August 2024. The initiative originated from the Israeli side and was approved and supported by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Former Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar hinted at this secret channel in his resignation letter, noting Netanyahu's awareness of the operation's significance. The direct line remained classified for months, hidden not only from the Israeli cabinet but also from mediating countries, and was only revealed recently after military censorship was lifted.

The talks were conducted by phone between senior Hamas official Razi Hamad and a key Shin Bet negotiator. These discussions aimed to resolve disagreements on critical issues, including the list of Palestinian prisoners to be released as part of the hostage release negotiations. The six hostages killed in the Rafah tunnel included Hirsh Goldberg Poland, Uri Danino, Eden Yerushalmi, Carmel Gat, Almog Sarusi, and Alex Lobnov. According to informed sources, Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya and Netanyahu endorsed the secret dialogue channel. Although several calls took place, the final agreement for the hostages' release was achieved through the efforts of mediating countries.

Additionally, journalist Ben Caspit reported that Razi Hamad had contact with businessman Shlomi Fogel, who acted as an envoy for Netanyahu during Operation Protective Edge. The revelations come amid ongoing concerns about Israel's provision of adequate shelter for Gaza residents ahead of winter, as highlighted by the Peace Council.