U.S. and Israel withdraw teams from ceasefire talks after Hamas response

Reuters

The United States and Israel have temporarily withdrawn their negotiating teams from the Gaza ceasefire talks in Qatar, following Hamas’s latest response to a proposal brokered by the U.S., Egypt and Qatar.

U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff said on Thursday that the American team was leaving the talks for now, citing concerns that Hamas had not demonstrated a clear willingness to move forward.

“While the mediators have made a great effort, Hamas does not appear to be coordinated or acting in good faith,” Witkoff said in a statement.

“We will now consider alternative options to bring the hostages home and try to create a more stable environment for the people of Gaza.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office also confirmed that its delegation had returned from Doha. It said Hamas’s latest proposal had been received and was under review, without offering further detail.

Hamas said it was surprised by remarks from U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff suggesting the group lacked a desire to reach a ceasefire in Gaza.

"The movement affirms its keenness to continue negotiations and engage in them in a manner that helps overcome obstacles and leads to a permanent ceasefire agreement," Hamas said in a statement early on Friday.

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