Israel Withdraws Negotiators From Qatar, Accuses Hamas of Disinterest in Talks

By Yoni Weiss

Following Hamas’s rejection of a proposed truce, Israel on Tuesday announced the recall of its negotiators from Qatar, signaling a halt to the ongoing negotiations. Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s office issued a statement expressing disappointment in Hamas’s stance and attributing it to the recent United Nations Security Council decision.

“Hamas’s refusal to engage in further negotiations for a ceasefire demonstrates their lack of interest in reaching a resolution,” the statement noted.

The statement highlighted Hamas’s rejection of American compromise proposals and reiterated Hamas’s extreme demands, including an immediate cessation of hostilities, a full IDF withdrawal from Gaza, and the maintenance of Hamas’s authority.

Israel reiterated its steadfast refusal to concede to what it termed “delusional demands” and reaffirmed its commitment to achieving its objectives in the conflict, including the release of all hostages and the neutralization of Hamas’s military and governmental capabilities.

Despite Israel’s withdrawal from negotiations, reports suggest that discussions are ongoing, with Israeli Mossad officials remaining in Doha for further talks.

Hamas, on the other hand, maintains its original demands for a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the return of displaced Palestinians, and a substantial prisoner exchange.

In response to Hamas’s rejection of the latest deal proposal, which was being negotiated through intermediaries such as Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, Hamas squarely blamed Netanyahu’s government for obstructing negotiation efforts.