Israel and the United States have pulled their negotiation teams from the latest Gaza ceasefire talks, citing a lack of sincerity from Hamas. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff accused Hamas of failing to negotiate in good faith and said alternative options are now being explored to secure hostage releases and improve conditions in Gaza.

Hamas, in response, expressed surprise and claimed their proposals had been welcomed by mediators, affirming their commitment to achieving a permanent ceasefire.

Meanwhile, Gaza’s humanitarian crisis worsens. Two more people have died from malnutrition, and women seeking aid reportedly faced tear gas and pepper spray from U.S.-linked aid contractors. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) defended the action, citing safety concerns.

Israel insists it has allowed sufficient aid into Gaza and blamed the UN for distribution delays. The UN countered that it’s operating under constraints imposed by Israel.

Despite the setback, an Israeli official said discussions could continue if Hamas shows flexibility. As starvation deaths rise and pressure mounts both domestically and internationally, calls for a ceasefire are intensifying.