Witkoff: Hamas Not Acting In Good Faith, Team Returning From Doha
Israel has also withdrawn its negotiation team, though formally for consultations on how to force Hamas to soften its stance.
Steve Witkoff announced today (Thursday) that the United States is recalling its negotiation team from Doha, claiming that Hamas has no intention of negotiating in good faith:
"We have decided to bring our team home from Doha for consultations after the latest response from Hamas, which clearly shows a lack of desire 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. We will now consider alternative options to bring the hostages home and try to create a more stable environment for the people of Gaza. It is a shame that Hamas has acted in this selfish way. We are resolute in seeking an end to this conflict and a permanent peace in Gaza."
Israel has also recalled its Doha negotiation team, with an Israeli source briefing reporters saying that Hamas has not budged from its original demands and that the gaps between Israel and Hamas remain "large."
Despite 18 days of negotiations, little progress appears to have been made, and in the meantime the IDF continues to hammer away at Hamas terrorists throughout the Gaza Strip.