Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov is reportedly making arrangements to meet with Hamas officials in Qatar, with the primary agenda being the potential release of hostages who were taken during the recent attack by the militant group on Israel.
According to a report by the Russian state news agency RIA on Saturday, Mikhail Bogdanov is planning to travel to Qatar, where he will engage in discussions with Hamas representatives. The focal point of these discussions will revolve around the prospective release of hostages who were captured by the militant group in the aftermath of their attack on Israel, which occurred just one week ago.
Bogdanov expressed his intent to engage with Hamas officials, emphasizing that this is a routine aspect of his diplomatic engagements when visiting Qatar. He mentioned, "If they wish, we always maintain contact. Moreover, in this situation, this (meeting) is useful for resolving practical issues, including the release of hostages," highlighting the importance of such discussions.
Hamas, in its most recent attack on Israel, carried out an operation that has been described as the deadliest in Israel's history. This devastating incident resulted in the loss of more than 1,300 lives, with numerous individuals being held hostage and confined to Gaza. In response to these events, Israel launched a highly intensive series of airstrikes, marking a significant escalation in their ongoing conflict with the Palestinians. According to Gaza authorities, the casualties in the region have reached a grim count of 1,900 lives.
Russia has taken steps to address the situation through diplomatic means by drafting a resolution for the United Nations Security Council. This resolution calls for the implementation of a humanitarian ceasefire. Russian President Vladimir Putin has also weighed in on the matter, stating his concerns about the potential consequences of an Israeli ground assault on Gaza. He specifically highlighted the expectation of an "absolutely unacceptable" level of civilian casualties in such an event.
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