Israeli Shin Bet Chief Runs Secret Channel with Hamas to Advance Hostage Talks

Following the killing of six hostages in a tunnel in Rafah in August 2024, the head of Israel's Shin Bet, Ronen Bar, initiated a covert communication channel with Hamas abroad. This secret line, conducted with the knowledge and approval of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, aimed to bypass delays caused by Qatar and break new ground in negotiations for hostage release.

The channel was managed by a senior Shin Bet official, identified only as 'A,' who held dozens of phone conversations with Hamas senior leader Ghazi Hamad. These talks, often intense and heated, involved clarifying red lines and negotiating terms directly, with Bar himself sometimes on the calls. A security source described the dynamic as "Witkoff brought Netanyahu, we brought Hamas," highlighting the Israeli side's direct engagement.

The secret talks emerged from frustration within professional ranks over Qatar's role, which was seen as obstructive rather than helpful. The direct Israeli-Hamas communications allowed the parties to "defuse obstacles" and ultimately led to a breakthrough enabling the hostages' release. The channel operated exclusively via phone, with no physical meetings, and was sanctioned by both Netanyahu and Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya.

This revelation was first reported by the Israeli news program "Ulpan Shishi" and confirmed in the main evening broadcast. The initiative underscores Israel's efforts to explore alternative diplomatic routes amid complex regional mediation challenges.