US, Israel Halt Gaza Ceasefire Talks Citing Hamas’s ‘Lack of Good Faith’
US, Israel Halt Gaza Ceasefire Talks Citing Hamas’s ‘Lack of Good Faith’
WASHINGTON – The United States has abruptly ended Gaza ceasefire talks and recalled its negotiating team from Qatar, with President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff stating that Hamas’s latest response “shows a lack of desire” to reach a truce. This decision, announced Thursday, comes as Israel also recalled its own negotiators, signaling a major setback for peace efforts.
Witkoff accused Hamas of not acting in “good faith,” prompting the U.S. to consider “alternative options to bring the hostages home and try to create a more stable environment for the people of Gaza.” State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott declined to detail these alternatives, emphasizing the “very dynamic situation.”
The latest development follows 21 months of conflict and worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza. The proposed deal included an initial 60-day ceasefire for the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, along with increased aid. However, talks have been bogged down by Hamas’s demand for a full Israeli withdrawal and an end to the war, while Israel insists Hamas must relinquish power and disarm.
The breakdown in talks coincides with mounting international pressure on Israel regarding the humanitarian crisis. On Thursday, French President Emmanuel Macron announced France would recognize Palestine as a state, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called for an emergency meeting Friday with Germany and France to address urgent aid delivery to Gaza.
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