Israel has decided to recall its diplomatic team from Qatar following Hamas' rejection of the latest proposal for a hostage agreement and ceasefire, as confirmed by an Israeli official.
The delegation, led by Mossad chief David Barnea, had been engaged in discussions in Doha for a period of eight days.
Israel remains steadfast in its stance against many of the terms presented by the mediators, which include Qatar and Egypt acting on behalf of Hamas.
Sources within the Israeli defense ministry have indicated that Hamas reasserted its demand for a complete ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the resettlement of Palestinians in northern Gaza, who have sought refuge in the southern regions since the outbreak of conflict.
In response to Hamas' rejection of a compromise brokered by the United States, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the Palestinian group's apparent lack of interest in ongoing negotiations. He characterized Hamas' refusal as evidence of its preference for a permanent ceasefire, citing it as regrettable fallout from the UN Security Council resolution.
Netanyahu's statement underscored Israel's refusal to accede to what it views as unrealistic demands from Hamas.
Within the Israeli government, hardline figures, including Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, have demonstrated reluctance towards even a temporary truce. This stance is informed by military intelligence reports suggesting a significant weakening of Hamas' military infrastructure, with only four battalions reportedly remaining in southern Gaza. Consequently, Israeli officials anticipate Hamas' eventual capitulation.
The IDF chief has briefed the Israeli war cabinet, expressing confidence in the military's ability to defeat Hamas and eliminate its leader, Yahya Sinwar, who is implicated in orchestrating the October 7, 2023 massacre.
Sources within the Israeli defense ministry have suggested that Hamas may be seeking to prolong negotiations in hopes of an escalation of violence in the West Bank by Hezbollah before the conclusion of the Holy Ramadan month. Such an escalation could potentially pressure Israel into further mediation efforts under international scrutiny.
Read also | Indian Embassy Expresses Condolences for Tragic Incident at Baltimore Bridge
