Israel, US Accuse Hamas of Blocking Gaza Hostage Release Talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump and Middle East peace envoy Steve Witkoff, have accused Hamas of deliberately obstructing ceasefire negotiations and hostage release talks in Gaza. Netanyahu emphasized that Hamas is the main obstacle to progress, with Israel exploring alternative strategies alongside the U.S. to recover hostages and dismantle Hamas's control over Gaza. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar criticized France’s recent recognition of Palestinian statehood, warning it undermines the chances of a hostage deal and ceasefire, and accused the UN and Palestinian Authority of actions that delegitimize Israel and fuel conflict. Despite the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Israel is preparing to send aid, while simultaneously restricting aid routes to limit Hamas's access. In the U.S., a controversial figure, Mahmoud Khalil, who has refused to condemn Hamas, has been welcomed by some Democrats and given media platforms, drawing criticism for promoting a Hamas-sympathetic narrative. The situation remains tense and complex, with ongoing diplomatic and military efforts to resolve the crisis amid worsening humanitarian conditions.