US Ends Gaza Ceasefire Talks
WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States has decided to halt its negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire and will return its diplomatic team from Qatar after Hamas’ recent response indicated a lack of willingness to achieve a truce, as stated by President Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff.
“Despite the efforts of mediators, Hamas seems neither coordinated nor sincere,” Witkoff mentioned. “We are now evaluating alternative strategies to secure the release of hostages and foster a more stable situation for Gaza’s residents.”
State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott did not disclose specific details regarding the “alternative strategies” for negotiating hostage releases held by Hamas.
Ongoing Difficulties in Ceasefire Talks
Discussions for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas have not yielded significant progress after weeks of talks in Qatar, with one of the major hurdles being the redeployment of Israeli forces post-ceasefire. Witkoff reaffirmed the US’s commitment to ending the conflict, expressing disappointment in Hamas’ actions.
Both the United States and Israeli officials are facing challenges in advancing talks that have been stalled amid escalating humanitarian conditions in Gaza. Meanwhile, discussions continue to break down over conflicting demands for ending the war, with Hamas insisting on a complete Israeli withdrawal before releasing all hostages.
Israeli Negotiators Also Recalled
In response to Hamas’s actions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office also called back his negotiating team, recognizing the efforts of Qatar and Egypt in facilitating talks. The discussions involved a suggested 60-day ceasefire where hostages would be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
Call for Immediate Aid
The situation is dire in Gaza, with reports of extreme hunger and malnutrition. British PM Keir Starmer has stated he will speak with officials from Germany and France to urgently address aid delivery to those suffering in Gaza. He criticized the ongoing humanitarian crisis as “unspeakable and indefensible.”
Global Pressure on Israel
Many countries are pressing Israel to change its course concerning aid deliveries, as humanitarian groups highlight the challenges faced in providing assistance amid stringent restrictions. The US has maintained its stance, attributing the war’s prolongation to Hamas’s refusal to accept ceasefire terms, while also supporting efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crisis.
