Former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen spoke Saturday night to Kan 11, confirming that negotiations are ongoing for a deal to release the hostages and missing from Gaza.
Despite the fact that Cohen is one of those negotiating behind the scenes, he said that they do not have all of the information regarding the hostages' situation, including that of the civilians and soldiers.
When asked about the October 7 massacre, Cohen said, "I was very surprised. We all were - the citizens, the political echelon, and the defense echelon were astonished."
"The State of Israel made an unsuccessful distinction between Hamas and Gaza civilians. And over the years, since the Disengagement, gave many opportunities to make some kind of agreement with Gaza. But now - the reality has changed, from one extreme to the other."
Later in the interview, Cohen discussed Qatar's involvement, stressing that despite the complexity, "We need to refrain from criticizing them."
According to him, Israel has a significant interest in having he Qataris on their side.
When asked about the country's lack of faith in the security system following the massacre, Cohen promised that there are still those who can be relied on. However, regarding the public's lack of faith in the diplomatic echelon, he said, "The citizens of Israel deserve better, on the national level."