An atmosphere of cautious optimism was created in Israel after the first day of contacts in Qatar on the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza in exchange for a ceasefire and the release of Hamas detainees.
According to public television Kan, in this round of talks - in which Qatar, the USA, Egypt and Israel participate - there was initial progress on a formula that would allow the return of civilians to the northern sector of Gaza.
Furthermore, the USA (represented by the head of the CIA William Burns) submitted its own proposal which, according to Kan, was accepted by Israel while the reaction of Hamas is awaited.
The talks in Qatar, Kan informed, continue today evening.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to hold a consultation tonight.
In Doha, Israel is represented by the head of the Mossad David Barnea and the head of the Shin Bet (internal security) Ronen Bar.
Meanwhile, family members of the hostages are also demonstrating this evening in Tel Aviv, near the defense ministry, in the hope of influencing the outcome of the contacts in Qatar.
Another demonstration is underway in Caesarea (north of Tel Aviv) in front of Netanyahu's private residence, where hundreds of demonstrators are calling not only for the quick return of all the hostages but also for early legislative elections.
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