Donald Trump’s special envoy accuses Hamas of refusing to pursue a cease-fire agreement. Image: Getty Images.
(The Post News)– Ceasefire negotiations held in Doha, with mediation by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, have stalled following the unexpected withdrawal of U.S. diplomats. The diplomatic exit came after Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, accused Hamas of “lacking the willingness to end the cease-fire,” intensifying tensions in the ongoing Gaza conflict.
Witkoff alleged that Hamas did not participate in good faith during the discussions, despite significant efforts by the mediators to find a peaceful solution. He labeled Hamas’ behavior as selfish and reaffirmed that the U.S. remains dedicated to stopping the violence in Gaza. American officials have continued to hold the Palestinian side accountable for repeated breakdowns in peace talks.
Witkoff also mentioned that Washington is exploring alternative measures to ensure the release of hostages currently held by Hamas and to stabilize the region. Hamas responded with surprise, rejecting Witkoff’s allegations. The group stated that U.S. diplomats were welcomed by mediators and had ample opportunity to contribute to reaching a deal.
In a statement released Friday, Hamas confirmed its ongoing commitment to dialogue and efforts toward a lasting ceasefire. Hamas also submitted a formal response to a ceasefire plan proposed by Egypt and Qatar. This framework had received initial approval from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office for U.S. evaluation.
Following Hamas’ response, Netanyahu recalled Israel’s delegation from Doha, expressing dissatisfaction with the group’s stance. Despite the setback, Netanyahu expressed gratitude to Egypt, Qatar, and mediators for supporting the peace effort.
An Israeli official told the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation (Kan) that U.S. withdrawal does not signal the end of negotiations. The proposed deal includes a 60-day cease-fire, under which Hamas would release 10 living Israeli hostages and the remains of 18 others in stages. In exchange, Israel would release Palestinian prisoners.
Humanitarian aid would be increased, and further talks would aim for a permanent ceasefire. According to human rights groups, over 10,880 Palestinians are imprisoned in Israel, many facing harsh conditions and poor medical care.
Hamas insists it will release Israeli captives only when a full cease-fire deal is finalized. Reports further claim that nearly 60,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, as Israeli authorities accuse Palestinian factions of rebellion.
Additionally, Israeli troops have reportedly blocked access to food aid, with civilians shot while waiting in line for UN-distributed supplies. The Israel-Palestine conflict remains one of the world’s longest-standing and deadliest disputes, rooted in decades of territorial, political, and humanitarian strife. Israel is also facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Journalist-Kgopotso@thepostnews.net
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