US Withdraws Negotiators From Gaza Ceasefire Talks After Stalled Progress

The United States has ended its participation in Gaza ceasefire negotiations in Qatar and recalled its negotiating team, following what officials described as a lack of progress in talks with Hamas. Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump’s special envoy, said Thursday that Hamas' latest response "shows a lack of desire" to reach a truce. Witkoff stated that while mediators had made significant efforts, Hamas did not appear to be coordinated or acting in good faith, and that the U.S. would now consider alternative options to secure the release of hostages and improve stability in Gaza.

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott declined to provide details on what alternative measures might be taken, emphasizing the U.S. commitment to achieving a ceasefire but attributing the stalemate to Hamas. Negotiations, which have lasted several weeks, have been hindered by disagreements over the redeployment of Israeli troops and the terms for ending the conflict.

Earlier on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office also recalled its negotiating team, expressing appreciation for the efforts of U.S., Qatari, and Egyptian mediators. The proposed agreement under discussion included a 60-day ceasefire, phased release of hostages by Hamas, and increased aid to Gaza, but both sides remain divided over key demands. Hamas has insisted on a full Israeli withdrawal and end to the war in exchange for releasing all hostages, while Israel demands Hamas relinquish power and disarm.

The breakdown in talks comes amid worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza, with aid agencies reporting severe malnutrition and rising hunger-related deaths. International leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, have called for urgent action to address the crisis and for Israel to allow more aid into Gaza. Israel maintains it is permitting sufficient aid and has blamed Hamas and logistical challenges for distribution delays. The U.S. and Israel have rejected accusations of deliberately restricting aid, while aid groups and U.N. agencies report significant obstacles to safe delivery.