Hamas has dismissed critiques from senior U.S. officials following the collapse of discussions earlier this week.
“We are dismayed by the remarks made by U.S. President Trump and previously by U.S. special envoy Witkoff, as these statements contradict the mediators’ evaluation of Hamas’s stance and are at odds with the concrete progress in negotiations that had been recognized by mediators, specifically Qatar and Egypt, who conveyed their satisfaction and appreciation for our earnest and cooperative approach,” stated Izzat Al-Rishq, a member of Hamas Movement’s Political Bureau.
Al-Rishq further asserted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration was “the primary impediment to all agreements,” alleging that Israeli officials consistently “create barriers, mislead, and sidestep obligations.” He subsequently called for increased U.S. pressure on Israel “to genuinely participate in halting the aggression and reaching a prisoner exchange agreement,” likely indicating the remaining captives in Gaza and Palestinians held in Israeli correctional facilities.
The Trump administration has dedicated months to efforts aimed at ending the conflict between Israel and Hamas, yet a resolution remains elusive.
Prospects for a ceasefire in Gaza diminished further subsequent to the U.S. withdrawing its delegation from Qatar. Steve Witkoff, U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, declared in a statement that this withdrawal occurred because Hamas’ reaction to the talks demonstrated “an absence of willingness to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza.”
“Although the mediators have exerted significant effort, Hamas does not seem to be operating in a coordinated manner or with genuine sincerity. We will now explore other avenues to secure the release of the hostages and endeavor to establish a more secure situation for Gaza’s populace,” Witkoff stated on Thursday.
Witkoff also remarked that it was “unfortunate” how Hamas has behaved in such a “self-serving manner,” emphasizing that the U.S. remains steadfast in its pursuit of lasting peace for the region.
The same day the U.S. declared its negotiators would depart Qatar, Netanyahu’s office announced its own withdrawal, also citing Hamas’s response.
President expressed dissatisfaction with Hamas’ management of the negotiations during a press briefing outside the White House on Friday. He theorized that Hamas was unwilling to strike a deal because “they understand the implications once the last hostages are” removed from Gaza.
“Hamas genuinely did not wish to agree to a deal. I believe they seek martyrdom, and that is extremely detrimental,” Trump commented. “It reached a stage where one must complete the task.”
Qatar and Egypt, serving as intermediaries in the discussions, released a on Friday, in which both nations affirmed their ongoing commitment to achieving a ceasefire.
“The two nations, collaborating with the United States of America, reiterate their dedication to sustained endeavors aimed at finalizing a comprehensive ceasefire accord for the Gaza Strip,” stated the joint declaration from Qatar and Egypt.
Although the collapse of negotiations represents a distinct impediment, discussions are anticipated to recommence next week, , according to Egyptian state-affiliated Al Qahera News TV.
Alec Schemmel of Digital contributed to this article.