US envoy Steve Witkoff announced the withdrawal, stating Hamas's unwillingness to yield, though Hamas expressed surprise and a desire to continue.
**Ceasefire Talks in Qatar Disrupted as Hamas Lacks Commitment, US Says**
**Ceasefire Talks in Qatar Disrupted as Hamas Lacks Commitment, US Says**
Negotiators from Israel and the US have paused discussions on a Gaza ceasefire, citing Hamas's poor negotiation efforts.
In Doha, recent ceasefire discussions have stalled, leading to accusations against Hamas regarding good faith negotiation. The US team, led by Witkoff, has decided to return for consultations after a perceived lack of commitment from Hamas to reach an agreement. Witkoff stated, "Hamas does not appear to be co-ordinated or acting in good faith," signaling a profound disappointment in the negotiations. Meanwhile, Israeli officials downplayed the withdrawal as a non-collapse of talks, indicating ongoing disagreements remain.
In a response, Hamas expressed eagerness to continue discussions, declaring their commitment to reach a permanent ceasefire. The talks, mediated by Qatari and Egyptian representatives, have been underway for over two weeks but have faced significant obstacles, as acknowledged by participants.
Compounding the situation, reports from the UN's Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) highlighted alarming statistics about child malnutrition in Gaza, alongside dire warnings from multiple international organizations about impending mass starvation. While Israel attributes the suffering to Hamas's actions, humanitarian concerns rise as more than 1,000 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives due to military engagements, particularly near aid distribution sites.
The Israeli military's operations in Gaza began following a deadly Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and hostages taken. Since then, over 59,106 fatalities have been reported in Gaza by Hamas's health ministry. The ongoing plight of the civilians raises significant humanitarian alarms amidst escalating conflict.
In a response, Hamas expressed eagerness to continue discussions, declaring their commitment to reach a permanent ceasefire. The talks, mediated by Qatari and Egyptian representatives, have been underway for over two weeks but have faced significant obstacles, as acknowledged by participants.
Compounding the situation, reports from the UN's Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) highlighted alarming statistics about child malnutrition in Gaza, alongside dire warnings from multiple international organizations about impending mass starvation. While Israel attributes the suffering to Hamas's actions, humanitarian concerns rise as more than 1,000 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives due to military engagements, particularly near aid distribution sites.
The Israeli military's operations in Gaza began following a deadly Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and hostages taken. Since then, over 59,106 fatalities have been reported in Gaza by Hamas's health ministry. The ongoing plight of the civilians raises significant humanitarian alarms amidst escalating conflict.
