Steve Witkoff, Special Envoy for Donald Trump, announced today that the United States is halting ceasefire negotiations in Gaza and recalling its negotiating team from Qatar for consultations. Witkoff stated that the latest response from Hamas demonstrated a “lack of desire to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza.”
Hamas Blamed for Lack of Progress
“While the mediators have made great efforts, Hamas does not appear to be coordinated or acting in good faith,” Witkoff said. “We will now consider alternative options to bring the hostages home and try to create a more stable environment for the people in Gaza.” He expressed regret that Hamas acted in such a “selfish manner” and affirmed the US’s determination to seek an end to the conflict in Gaza.
Breakthroughs in ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas have eluded the Trump administration for months as conditions in Gaza continue to deteriorate. The territory recently experienced its deadliest day for people seeking aid in over 21 months of war, when at least 85 Palestinians died on Sunday attempting to access food.
The two sides have held weeks of talks in Qatar, reporting small signs of progress but no major breakthroughs. Officials say the main sticking point has been the redeployment of Israeli troops after any ceasefire.
Israel Recalls Negotiating Team as Well
Earlier today, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also recalled his country’s negotiating team from Israel in light of Hamas’s response. A brief statement from the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office expressed appreciation for the efforts of Witkoff and the mediators from Qatar and Egypt but provided no further details.
The proposed deal under consideration was said to include a 60-day ceasefire, during which Hamas would release 10 living hostages and hand over the bodies of 18 in phases, in exchange for Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. During this period, humanitarian aid delivery would increase, and both sides would negotiate a permanent ceasefire.
Negotiations have stalled due to conflicting demands for ending the war. Hamas insists it will only release all hostages in exchange for a full Israeli withdrawal and an end to the war. Israel, however, states it will not agree to end the war until Hamas relinquishes power and disarms, which the militant group refuses.
The State Department earlier this week reported that Witkoff would travel to the Middle East for negotiations, though US officials later clarified that Witkoff would travel to Europe. The Associated Press reported it was unclear whether he attended meetings today.
