The initial round of indirect ceasefire talks between Hamas and Israel, held in Qatar, ended without results, according to two Palestinian sources on Monday (July 7). They said the Israeli delegation lacked the authority needed to strike a deal with Hamas. The talks resumed Sunday, just ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s upcoming third visit to the White House since U.S. President Donald Trump returned to office six months ago.

"The Israeli team in Doha doesn't have the mandate to finalize an agreement," the sources told Reuters. Before leaving for Washington, Netanyahu said Israeli negotiators were instructed to pursue a ceasefire deal based on terms already accepted by Israel. Meanwhile, on Saturday night, protesters in Tel Aviv gathered near the defense ministry, demanding a ceasefire and the return of approximately 50 hostages still held in Gaza. They waved flags, chanted slogans, and carried posters of the captives.

The conflict escalated after Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing about 1,200 people and capturing 251 hostages, according to Israeli reports. Of those, roughly 20 are believed to still be alive. Most others were released through diplomatic efforts or rescued by Israeli forces. In response to the attack, Israel launched a military offensive in Gaza. According to Gaza’s health ministry, over 57,000 Palestinians have been killed. The assault has also triggered widespread hunger, massive displacement, and extensive destruction across the territory.