Gaza cease-fire talks collapse in Doha as Israel and Hamas trade blame

DOHA — Cease-fire negotiations between Israel and Hamas broke down this week in Doha, as both sides accused each other of derailing the talks. The indirect discussions, aimed at halting the conflict in Gaza and facilitating the release of Israeli hostages, failed to progress due to entrenched demands and mutual distrust.

Hamas accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of negotiating in bad faith, alleging that the Israeli delegation had prolonged its stay in Doha without meaningful engagement. “There have been no real negotiations since last Saturday,” Hamas stated, labeling the Israeli presence a “delay tactic” intended to mislead the international community.

Netanyahu’s office refuted these claims, asserting that Hamas rejected a proposed framework and insisted on a complete cessation of hostilities as a prerequisite for any hostage release. In response, senior members of Israel’s negotiating team were recalled to Jerusalem for consultations, though a smaller delegation remains in Doha.

The collapse of talks coincides with escalating humanitarian suffering in Gaza. The Gaza Health Ministry reported nearly 90 deaths in the past 24 hours as Israeli airstrikes intensified, particularly in northern areas like Beit Lahiya, al-Salatin, and al-Sudaniya. Witnesses recounted scenes of widespread destruction and growing despair.

Despite mounting international calls for a cease-fire, both sides remain at an impasse, leaving little hope for an immediate resolution to the conflict.