Hamas “surprised” as US, Israel withdraw from Gaza talks, but cease-fire still in sight

Efforts to broker a cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas have hit a stumbling block, following the withdrawal of US and Israeli negotiators from the ongoing talks in Doha.

Both delegations left the Qatari capital on July 24 in what Israeli officials described as a coordinated effort to increase pressure on Hamas, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Steve Witkoff, US President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, announced that the US is recalling its team from Israel-Hamas cease-fire negotiations following what he described as a "selfish" and unconstructive response from Hamas.

“A lack of desire” to reach an agreement, he said in a statement on X, had prompted the US to explore “alternative options to bring the hostages home” and pursue a more stable future for Gaza.

The move, reportedly coordinated with Qatar, was echoed by Israel, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Office stating the Israeli delegation would return “in light of Hamas' response this morning.”

"We appreciate the efforts of the mediators Qatar and Egypt and the efforts of [the US Middle East] envoy Witkoff to bring about a breakthrough in the talks," the office said.

Despite the setbacks, Israeli sources stressed the talks haven’t collapsed. "We are assuming Hamas is interested in a deal. Their current positions are an attempt to maximize the achievements gained through the negotiations,” one source said.

Among the unresolved issues are the areas from which Israeli forces will withdraw and the number of Palestinian prisoners to be released. Hamas reportedly demanded the release of 20 life-sentenced prisoners for every living Israeli hostage, while Israel offered 10. Hamas also requested the release of 2,000 Palestinians detained after October 7, 2023.

Palestinian sources said Hamas is opposed to Israeli military presence in populated areas but is willing to allow a buffer of 700–1,200 metres inside Gaza. The group also demanded a full IDF withdrawal from the Morag Corridor and cancellation of the planned "Magen Oz" corridor near Khan Younis.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum said they were concerned for their loved ones' safety, fearing a potential collapse of a hostage deal.

"The negotiations have dragged on for far too long. The families are urgently calling on Prime Minister Netanyahu, Minister Dermer, and Gal Hirsch to provide an immediate update on the current status of the negotiations."

Gal Hirsch, the government official responsible for returning the hostages and missing persons,

later assured families: “Talks are continuing and will continue from Israel as well.”

By Vafa Guliyeva