The movement affirms its keenness to continue negotiations and engage in them in a manner that helps overcome obstacles and leads to a permanent ceasefire agreement," Hamas said. Hamas said it was surprised by remarks from US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff suggesting the group lacked a desire to reach a ceasefire in Gaza.

CAIRO (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday his government was considering “alternative options” to ceasefire talks with Hamas after Israel and the U.S. recalled their negotiating teams, throwing the future of the negotiations into further uncertainty.

The United States is cutting short Gaza ceasefire talks in Qatar, saying the latest response from Hamas “shows a lack of desire" to reach a truce.