Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas in Qatar concluded without progress. Palestinian Arab sources claim the Israeli delegation lacked the authority needed to finalize an agreement on a ceasefire and hostage release.
Qatar Talks Between Israel and Hamas End Without Progress Amid Mandate Dispute
The first session of indirect ceasefire and hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas, held in Doha on Sunday, ended without a breakthrough, Reuters reported, citing two Palestinian Arab sources familiar with the matter.
According to the sources, the Israeli delegation lacks the authority to finalize an agreement. “The delegation is not sufficiently authorized and holds no real powers,” they told Reuters.
The talks come shortly after Hamas submitted what it called a “positive response” to the latest proposal, requesting only minor amendments. However, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office rejected those proposed changes, calling them “unacceptable.”
Despite this, the Israeli team proceeded to Qatar to engage in dialogue.
The negotiations coincide with Netanyahu’s departure for Washington, where he is scheduled to meet President Donald Trump. Speaking before his flight, Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to its war objectives:
“There are 20 living hostages and 30 deceased. I am determined to bring them all back. Gaza must never again pose a threat to Israel.”
He emphasized the elimination of Hamas’s military capabilities as a central goal: “We will not allow the encouragement of hostage-taking and murder.”
President Trump expressed optimism on Sunday, stating there is a “good chance” of a deal with Hamas this week that could secure the release of more hostages.
Former President Donald Trump expressed optimism Sunday about ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas, telling reporters:
“I think we’re close to a deal on Gaza. There’s a good chance we’ll have a deal with Hamas this week, involving quite a few of the remaining hostages.”
He added: “We’ve already gotten a lot of hostages out. Now, we believe more will be released—hopefully within the coming days.”
