Official: Qatari intelligence officers in Israel regarding Gaza

An Israeli security official said on Sunday that the Israeli intelligence service (Mossad) is hosting officials from its Qatari counterpart to consult on the return of hostages held by Hamas and other provisions in a truce in Gaza brokered by Doha.

The official added that Qatari intelligence officers arrived in Israel yesterday, Saturday, for a visit of unknown duration, adding that cooperation between the two agencies is “traditionally close,” despite the absence of official relations between the two countries.

Reuters said that Qatar’s international media office has not yet responded to a request for comment.

Another official briefed on the visit told Reuters on Saturday that a Qatari delegation went to Israel yesterday to discuss a possible extension of the truce, but it was not clear whether intelligence officials participated in the talks.

The second official said on Sunday that a group of Qataris are still working in Israel “to enhance coordination during operations and ensure the operation runs smoothly, with coordination with the operations room in Doha.”

Qatar hosts a number of senior Hamas officials and the movement’s political bureau. Qatar also enjoys friendly relations with Iran, an arch enemy of Israel, which supports Hamas.