Hamas-Israel Ceasefire Talks in Doha Stall as Israeli Delegation Lacks Mandate

The first round of indirect ceasefire talks between Hamas and Israel in Doha, Qatar ended without progress, according to two Palestinian sources familiar with the negotiations. The sources stated early Monday that the Israeli delegation lacked the authority needed to finalize an agreement, saying it had “no real powers” to negotiate meaningfully with Hamas.

The talks, which resumed Sunday, come ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s third visit to the White House since President Donald Trump returned to office nearly six months ago. Netanyahu previously stated that Israeli negotiators were under clear instructions to pursue a ceasefire aligned with Israel’s terms.

Tensions remain high as Israeli citizens continue to demand a resolution. On Saturday evening, large crowds gathered near the Israeli Defense Ministry in Tel Aviv, waving flags and holding signs with photos of the roughly 50 hostages still believed to be held in Gaza. Protesters called for an immediate ceasefire and the safe return of the captives.

The ongoing conflict was reignited on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a deadly assault on southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, according to Israeli reports. Since then, diplomatic efforts have led to the release of many hostages, while others have been rescued by Israeli forces. Around 20 are believed to remain alive.

Israel’s military response in Gaza has drawn international scrutiny. According to Gaza’s health ministry, over 57,000 Palestinians have been killed since the retaliation began. The assault has devastated Gaza’s infrastructure, displaced its population, and triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, including widespread hunger.

As ceasefire talks stall, the international community remains focused on whether upcoming U.S.-Israel discussions can help unlock a path to peace and hostage recovery.