Talks on Gaza stalled: 17 people seeking aid killed

Negotiations aimed at reaching a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip have stalled due to disagreements over the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the territory, Reuters reported. Palestinian and Israeli sources familiar with the negotiations said on Saturday that the indirect talks held in Doha are proving to be complex.

As discussions continue on a U.S.-proposed 60-day ceasefire plan, an Israeli official stated that both sides have been engaged in talks for a week. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed hope for significant progress in the coming days.

On Saturday in Gaza, 17 people trying to obtain food aid were shot and killed. Local medical staff called it another bloody incident within the U.S.-backed aid distribution system. According to the UN, at least 800 people have been killed in such incidents over the past six weeks.

Witnesses said the gunfire was aimed at the head and chest. The Israeli army stated that warning shots were fired but claimed, based on the investigation, that no one was harmed by soldier fire.

Israeli and Hamas delegations are working in the Qatari capital on an agreement regarding the phased withdrawal of military forces, release of hostages, and end of the war. However, the negotiations have reached a deadlock. The Israeli side blamed Hamas, calling its stance "an obstacle to the agreement." In response, Hamas accused Israel of blocking progress with its demands.

According to a Palestinian source, Hamas rejected maps proposed by Israel. These maps show that after the planned withdrawal, about 40% of Gaza—including southern Rafah and northern and eastern areas—would remain under Israeli control. Hamas demands a return to the pre-March offensive lines.

In Israel, thousands of people gathered in Tel Aviv to protest, calling on the government to reach an immediate agreement for the release of hostages held by Hamas. Protester Boaz Levi said: “Our friends, our brothers are in Gaza. It’s time to end this war. That’s why we are here.”

According to Gaza's health authorities, more than 57,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli military actions, and over two million people have been forced to leave their homes. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!