Steve Witkoff, the United States' special envoy to the Middle East, announced this evening (Thursday) that the American delegation is leaving Qatar and returning to consultations, following Hamas' latest response to the hostage deal and ceasefire.
In a message he posted on his X Network account, Witkoff wrote: "We decided to return our delegation to consultations after Hamas' latest response, which clearly shows an unwillingness to reach a ceasefire in Gaza.".
""We decided to bring our team home from Doha for consultations after Hamas's latest response, which clearly shows an unwillingness to reach a ceasefire in Gaza. While the mediators have made a great effort, Hamas does not appear to be coordinated or acting in good faith.".
Witkoff added: "We will now consider alternative options for returning the hostages home and try to create a more stable environment for the people of Gaza. It is unfortunate that Hamas has acted in this selfish way. We are determined to seek an end to this conflict and a permanent peace in Gaza.".
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarified this evening: "If Hamas perceives our willingness to reach a deal as an opportunity to dictate to us terms of surrender that will endanger Israel - it is mistaken, and in a big way.".
Earlier, the Prime Minister's Office announced that the Israeli delegation is returning from Doha to Israel for consultations upon receiving Hamas's response to the deal.
The Prime Minister's Office said in a statement: "In light of the response that Hamas gave this morning, it was decided to return the negotiating team to continue consultations in Israel." The office also said: "We appreciate the efforts of the mediators Qatar and Egypt and the efforts of envoy Witkoff to bring about a breakthrough in the talks.".
A political source clarified this evening that the gaps with Hamas "are in all areas that are involved in negotiations.".
In its response, Hamas demanded that in exchange for the release of ten live hostages, 200 terrorists serving life sentences for murder and another 2,000 Palestinians arrested in the Gaza Strip after the October uprising would be released.
The original proposal submitted by the mediators agreed on 125 terrorists and up to 1,200 detainees who were arrested after the October uprising. In Israel, this demand is seen as a retreat from previous agreements.
Political commentator Amit Segal wrote: "Israel, fearing public opinion, tried to claim that the return of the delegation did not indicate an explosion. Witkoff told the simple truth: There is no one to talk to.".
""And one could add - the road to hell is paved with good intentions. All the pressure on Israel to become more and more flexible has led Hamas to become more and more rigid.".
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