U.S. Special Representative Steve Witkoff stated that the U.S. decided to exit ongoing peace talks on halting the fire in the Gaza Strip ahead of schedule. The U.S. also called its delegation in Qatar for consultations. According to him, despite the efforts of the mediators, Hamas failed to act in agreement and did not show goodwill.
According to Witkoff, in this situation, the U.S. is exploring new options for bringing home the Israeli hostages and creating a stable environment for the people of Gaza.
Resolute actions: Witkoff added that the goal of the U.S. is to end the conflict and establish lasting peace in the Gaza Strip. However, as reported by the Associated Press, the Trump administration has not been successful in negotiations for several months, and no significant results have been achieved in recent weeks.
60-day talks: Initially, the talks were focused on a 60-day ceasefire, during which Hamas proposed to release 10 Israeli hostages and hand over the bodies of 18 Palestinians in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. The plan also included an increase in humanitarian aid and negotiations on a long-term ceasefire.
Military demands: The talks reached an impasse due to the different demands of both sides. Hamas is demanding the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, while Israel is demanding that Hamas give up power and disarm.
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