Israeli PM Recalls Senior Delegation from Doha over Hamas Rejection of Hostage Deal

Report by Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed the return of senior Israeli negotiators from Doha after Hamas rejected the latest framework for a proposed hostage release agreement.

According to a formal statement issued by the Israeli government on Tuesday evening, the delegation had been engaged in indirect negotiations through Qatari mediation. However, the process came to a halt after Hamas refused to accept the conditions set forth in the proposed deal.

“Following Hamas’s continued refusal to accept a reasonable agreement, the Prime Minister has ordered the delegation to return to Israel,” the statement declared.

Negotiations Collapse Amid Stalemate

The breakdown of talks marks a significant setback for international mediators, including Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, who have been working for weeks to secure a temporary ceasefire in Gaza and facilitate the release of hostages taken during the October 2023 Hamas attack.

• Key sticking points included Hamas’s demand for an end to Israeli military operations and the release of high-profile Palestinian prisoners.
• The Israeli side, led by Mossad officials, insisted on a phased hostage release tied to security guarantees.
• Talks had shown minor progress before Hamas’s latest rejection prompted the Israeli withdrawal.

Domestic and International Reaction

Prime Minister Netanyahu is under increased pressure from within Israel, particularly from families of hostages who continue to demand swift government action.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, commenting on the development during a press briefing in Brussels, urged both sides to return to negotiations.

“The humanitarian cost is too high. We call on all parties to re-engage with urgency,” Blinken said.

Qatari officials have not yet released a formal response but are expected to continue their mediation efforts behind the scenes.