Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz confirmed today, Saturday, the resumption of indirect negotiations with Hamas in Qatar, in order to release the hostages held in the Gaza Strip, who were kidnapped during the movement's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

A statement from Katz's office said he had informed the parents of the hostage, Liri Elbag, whose video was released by Hamas earlier, "of the ongoing efforts to release the hostages, including the Israeli delegation that left yesterday (Friday) for talks in Qatar."

He stressed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had given "precise instructions for the continuation of negotiations."

Netanyahu also spoke with the parents of Elbag, 19, who was detained while performing military service at the Nahal Oz base in southern Israel.

His office said in a statement carried by Agence France-Presse that "the prime minister promised (the family) that Israel continues to work tirelessly for the return of Leary and all the hostages (...) The efforts are ongoing, including at this time."

Hamas announced on Friday evening the resumption of indirect talks with Israel in Qatar regarding the truce, noting: “This round will focus on the agreement leading to a complete ceasefire, the withdrawal of the occupation forces from the Gaza Strip and the details of implementation, and the return of the displaced to their homes from which they were expelled in all areas of the Strip.”

Qatar, Egypt and the United States have been mediating talks between Israel and Hamas for months.