Israeli Delegation Travels to Doha for Indirect Negotiations with Hamas
On Monday afternoon, an Israeli delegation departed for Doha to engage in indirect negotiations with Hamas, facilitated by mediators. These discussions are structured around a framework proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff. The initial phase of the talks will address the organization of negotiations and the key issues to be discussed. Witkoff is anticipated to join the discussions on Tuesday or Wednesday.
In a recent interview with Fox News, Witkoff emphasized the necessity of establishing deadlines to advance the stalled negotiations, stating, “We need deadlines.” He expressed deep concern over the condition of previously released hostages, describing their state as “simply unacceptable” and “deplorable,” noting that many were released in poor health, having lacked adequate food and medical care.
Concurrently, Hamas has reiterated its rejection of Witkoff’s proposal, insisting on transitioning to the second phase of negotiations, which includes establishing a permanent cease-fire. The group emphasized its readiness to commence these negotiations immediately and accused Israel of undermining the agreement and attempting to delay its implementation for personal and political reasons. Hamas further asserted that threats of war would not be effective and that adherence to the agreement is the sole path forward, warning that any deviation could jeopardize the fate of the prisoners.
Earlier on Monday, Hamas indicated that it had demonstrated flexibility in discussions with the United States, Qatar, and Egypt regarding the hostage situation and cease-fire with Israel. The group is now awaiting the outcomes of negotiations with Israel to proceed to the second phase of the agreement, which encompasses ending the conflict, Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, and reconstruction efforts.
Earlier today, Marc Rubio said Adam Boehler’s direct talks with Hamas bore no fruit and that the United States primary negotiations are being handled by Witkoff. This comes as Boehler fumbled in several interviews in Israel calling Israeli hostages in Gaza ‘prisoners’, and terrorists in Israeli jails ‘hostages’.