Trump claims Hamas refuses to negotiate ceasefire

On July 25, 2025, tensions escalated in Gaza as negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release faltered. President Donald Trump expressed disappointment, stating that Hamas showed no genuine interest in striking a deal amid ongoing discussions. The U.S. and Israel withdrew their negotiating teams from Doha, Qatar, after U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff remarked that Hamas's lack of desire led to the pullback. Initial hopes for a positive outcome were dashed when Israel announced its withdrawal, prompting the U.S. to follow suit. A senior Israeli official indicated that although the talks had not fully collapsed, chances of resuming negotiations hinged on Hamas altering its demands regarding the number of Palestinian prisoners to be released. Witkoff described Hamas's behavior as unreliable and lacking coordination, leading to a reevaluation of strategies to secure the safe return of hostages, which currently number 50. In response to the withdrawal announcement, Hamas expressed disbelief at Witkoff's critical remarks. A representative stated their commitment to pursuing further negotiations to overcome hurdles and establish a sustainable ceasefire agreement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed the sentiment, suggesting Hamas was the primary obstacle in achieving a hostage release deal, while asserting that alternative measures would be explored to ensure the safety of Israeli citizens. Trump reiterated these sentiments in comments made outside the White House, lamenting Hamas's apparent unwillingness to engage in negotiations, suggesting they preferred conflict over diplomacy. He indicated that as the situation approaches a critical juncture with the final hostages remaining, Hamas's refusal to agree is particularly detrimental. The U.S. had proposed a 60-day ceasefire alongside the staggered release of Israeli hostages and bodies in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, intensifying the urgency of establishing a resolution to this ongoing conflict.