The United States has abruptly withdrawn from ongoing Gaza ceasefire negotiations in Qatar, with President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff citing a lack of genuine interest from Hamas in reaching a deal. Witkoff announced on Thursday that the U.S. negotiating team would return home for consultations after Hamas’ latest response failed to show serious commitment to ending the hostilities.

The announcement came as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s readiness to reach a ceasefire deal—but warned against misinterpreting this willingness as weakness. Speaking at a memorial for Zionist leader Ze’ev Jabotinsky, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel would not accept terms that compromise its security.

“If Hamas perceives our willingness to reach a deal as a weakness… it is greatly mistaken,” Netanyahu said. In response to Hamas’ latest communication, Netanyahu’s office also confirmed that Israel’s own delegation was being recalled from the talks.

Despite limited public details, Netanyahu’s office expressed appreciation for the efforts of U.S. envoy Witkoff, as well as mediators from Qatar and Egypt.

Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate. The World Health Organization (WHO) has described the situation as “man-made mass starvation,” with aid blockades worsening conditions for civilians. The United Nations and international aid agencies have warned of impending famine, while Gaza’s health ministry reported 33 deaths from malnutrition within a 48-hour span last week.

As diplomatic efforts falter, global pressure is mounting on all parties to prioritize human life and bring an end to the protracted conflict.