Doha – Hamas has condemned the decision by the United States and Israel to withdraw from ongoing ceasefire negotiations in Qatar, accusing both nations of sabotaging peace efforts and prolonging the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
According to media reports, U.S. and Israeli officials pulled out of the indirect negotiations—mediated by Egypt and Qatar—following Hamas’s response to a proposed truce framework. The United States claimed the group had shown unwillingness to compromise, prompting the recall of its special envoy. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahusimilarly ordered his delegation to return home, stating that Hamas was not serious about reaching a deal.
In a statement issued Thursday, Hamas rejected the accusations, stating that its response was “positive and flexible”, and that the group remained committed to a ceasefire that would end months of deadly conflict and facilitate the exchange of prisoners and hostages.
The collapsed talks were centered around a phased truce plan involving:
- A 60-day ceasefire
- Gradual exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners
- Increased humanitarian aid to Gaza
- Steps toward a long-term cessation of hostilities
Disagreements reportedly persisted over Israel’s demand for Hamas’s complete disarmament and the withdrawal of fighters, which Hamas rejected as untenable.
The breakdown in talks comes amid escalating humanitarian concerns in Gaza, where over 59,000 people have reportedly died in Israeli military operations since October, and critical aid deliveries remain disrupted.
Observers say the stalled negotiations threaten to derail any diplomatic momentum and raise the risk of further escalation in the region.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.