Israel recalls negotiators from Doha as hostage talks stall over Hamas refusal

Israel is pulling back its senior negotiation team from the hostage release talks in Doha after a week of what it called “intensive” but fruitless discussions, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced.

“After about a week of intensive talks in Doha, the senior negotiation team will return to Israel for consultations, while working-level representatives will remain in Doha for the time being,” the statement read.

Israel said it had accepted a U.S.-backed proposal based on the framework put forward by presidential envoy Steven Witkoff. However, Hamas has so far refused to engage with the terms, prompting Israel to reassess its strategy.

“Israel agrees to the American proposal for the return of the hostages… but so far, Hamas continues to cling to its refusal,” the statement said.

The collapse in progress puts fresh strain on ongoing efforts by international mediators to reach a breakthrough and secure the release of hostages held in Gaza.

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