Hamas Slams Trump and Witkoff, Demands U.S. Pressure on Israel Amid Ceasefire Collapse

In a sharp rebuttal to criticism from U.S. leadership, Hamas has fired back at President Donald Trump and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff after the collapse of ceasefire talks with Israel. Izzat Al-Rishq, a key figure in Hamas’ Political Bureau, expressed outrage over statements from Trump and Witkoff, calling them inconsistent with the mediators’ views. According to Al-Rishq, mediators like Qatar and Egypt had previously acknowledged Hamas’ constructive approach in negotiations.

Instead of accepting blame, Hamas pointed the finger at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration, accusing it of being the true barrier to peace. Al-Rishq claimed Israel continuously creates obstacles and evades commitments, urging the U.S. to ramp up pressure on Israel to end the aggression and facilitate a prisoner exchange deal involving hostages in Gaza and Palestinians in Israeli custody.

The situation took a dramatic turn as both the U.S. and Israel withdrew their teams from talks in Qatar. Witkoff didn’t mince words, stating that Hamas showed no genuine interest in a ceasefire, acting in bad faith despite mediators’ efforts. He emphasized the U.S. resolve to explore other avenues to secure the release of hostages and bring stability to Gaza, calling Hamas’ stance a selfish shame.

President Trump, speaking to the press outside the White House, didn’t hold back either. He suggested Hamas has no real desire for a deal, ominously hinting at dire consequences once the remaining hostages are freed. His frustration was palpable as he remarked that the group seems bent on self-destruction, leaving little room for diplomacy at this juncture.

Meanwhile, mediators Qatar and Egypt remain undeterred, issuing a joint statement affirming their commitment to brokering a comprehensive ceasefire. Despite the current deadlock, there’s a glimmer of hope as talks are expected to resume next week, according to Egyptian sources. But with trust eroding on all sides, the path to peace in Gaza looks more treacherous than ever.