Hamas’s latest stunt in Doha has left U.S. and Israeli negotiators packing their bags. Both nations pulled out of indirect hostage talks in Qatar on Thursday, fed up with what they call Hamas’s flippant attitude toward a ceasefire and hostage release deal.
Breitbart reported that the U.S. and Israel walked away after Hamas delivered a response deemed utterly unserious, marking the second time this week Arab mediators rejected their proposals for lacking good faith. Negotiations in Doha aimed to secure a deal to free hostages and pause the fighting in Gaza.
Instead, Hamas’s antics have pushed both nations to explore other paths to bring the remaining captives home. Weeks of mediated talks in Qatar hit a wall when Hamas failed to show any real commitment.
U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff didn’t mince words, stating, “Hamas does not appear to be coordinated or acting in good faith.” His blunt assessment exposes a terror group more focused on chaos than constructive dialogue.
Witkoff’s frustration is palpable, and for good reason—Hamas’s latest response was labeled “selfish” by the U.S. envoy. It’s a pattern: dodge accountability, stall talks, and keep Gaza in turmoil. This isn’t negotiation; it’s a masterclass in bad faith.
Israel, meanwhile, has kept a more measured tone, likely due to domestic political pressures. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu backed Witkoff’s stance, declaring, “Hamas is the obstacle to a hostage release deal.” His words underscore a grim reality: dealing with a group that prioritizes terror over resolution is like negotiating with a brick wall.
The stakes couldn’t be higher—50 hostages remain in Gaza, with only 20 believed to be alive. Israel’s conditions for any deal are clear: Hamas must disarm, and its leaders must leave Gaza. Anything less risks perpetuating the cycle of violence that’s plagued the region for decades.
With talks collapsing, the Israel Defense Forces are ramping up operations in Hamas-controlled areas where hostages are thought to be held.
The strategy is twofold: rescue the captives or pressure Hamas into smaller, side deals. It’s a risky but necessary pivot when diplomacy fails.
Witkoff didn’t hold back, lamenting, “It is a shame that Hamas has acted in this selfish way.” His words sting because they highlight a missed opportunity for peace. Hamas’s refusal to engage seriously only deepens the suffering in Gaza.
Netanyahu echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the joint U.S.-Israel resolve to find “alternative options to bring our hostages home.” His statement reflects a conservative instinct to prioritize results over endless talks. It’s a pragmatic approach, even if it ruffles progressive feathers.
The U.S. and Israel are now regrouping to explore new strategies. Witkoff hinted at this shift, saying, “We will now consider alternative options to bring the hostages home and try to create a more stable environment.” It’s a clear signal that both nations are done waiting for Hamas to get serious.
Israel, in particular, plans to continue its efforts from within its borders, according to a senior official. This move suggests a focus on unilateral action, possibly leveraging military pressure or backchannel deals. It’s a practical response to a group that’s proven unreliable.
Hamas’s second dud response this week only reinforces its reputation as an obstacle to peace. Arab mediators, who’ve worked tirelessly, rejected the group’s earlier proposal for the same reason: it lacked substance. This isn’t a negotiation tactic—it’s a deliberate stall.
Witkoff’s resolve remains firm, as he stressed, “We are resolute in seeking an end to this conflict and a permanent peace in Gaza.”
It’s a noble goal, but one that feels increasingly out of reach with Hamas at the table. Their actions scream indifference to the hostages’ plight and Gaza’s future.
Netanyahu’s broader vision aligns with Witkoff’s, aiming to “end Hamas’s terror rule, and secure lasting peace.” It’s a conservative rallying cry: dismantle terror, protect citizens, and reject appeasement. Anything less would betray the hostages and embolden Hamas.
