‘Selfish Hamas': US, Israel Spring A ‘Surprise' By Cutting Short Gaza Truce-Hostage Release Talks

Time of India

6 days ago

Efforts to secure a long-awaited ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza have hit a fresh roadblock, as both Israel and the United States recalled their negotiators from Doha. The talks, underway since July 6, aimed to facilitate a 60-day ceasefire in exchange for the release of 10 living Israeli hostages and the bodies of 18 others, alongside a reciprocal release of Palestinian prisoners. U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff called Hamas' latest response 'selfish', stating the group was not acting in good faith. His remarks were echoed in Washington and Jerusalem, though both nations clarified that negotiations had not collapsed. Israeli officials insisted that this was not a crisis, but rather a moment of 'evidence of Hamas' rejectionist approach.' In response, Hamas condemned Witkoff's comments, calling them 'negative' and 'untrue.' In an official statement, the group claimed its proposal was made in consultation with Palestinian factions and had been welcomed by other mediators, reaffirming its commitment to ending hostilities. Amid these diplomatic tensions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hamas that any misinterpretation of Israel's openness as weakness would be a grave mistake. 'We are determined to bring everyone back,' he declared. Watch.