Negotiations Between the US, Israel, and Qatar With Hamas Over 50 Hostages Fail: WSJ

Negotiations between the United States, Israel, and Qatar regarding the release of 50 hostages held by the Palestinian Hamas movement have failed. The reasons for the deal's failure have not been disclosed. This was reported by The Wall Street Journal, citing officials.

According to sources from WSJ, Hamas declined negotiations concerning the hostages in the early days of the conflict with Israel. Later, with the mediation of the US and Qatar, the parties began to discuss potential terms of a deal, including a temporary ceasefire, restoration of water supply to the Gaza Strip, and an increase in humanitarian aid.

On October 20, Hamas released two hostages, American citizens Judith and Natalie Raanan. The militant group explained that the decision was made “for humanitarian reasons.” Qatar has played a mediating role in the negotiations. Footage has also been released.

Hamas had previously reported that it was holding more than 200 Israelis and several dozen foreigners as hostages.