Israel announced on May 20, 2025, the recall of its senior hostage negotiators from Doha, Qatar, for consultations, amidst an escalating military campaign in Gaza.

The announcement comes after a week of indirect talks in Qatar, where the country has played a mediating role in the ongoing conflict.

According to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, while senior negotiators will return to Israel, working-level discussions will continue in Doha.

The backdrop of this recall is a recent escalation in military operations by Israel in Gaza, which began concurrently with the initiation of negotiations.

Reportedly, Israel claims Hamas has been uncooperative, asserting that the militant group has refused to accept any proposals for hostages’ release.

In stark contrast, a source close to Hamas has criticized Israel's negotiation efforts, alleging that the Israeli delegation engaged in no substantive talks since the previous Sunday and attributing this to what they described as Netanyahu’s systematic obstruction.

Tensions have been further exacerbated by Qatar's remarks, which characterized Israel's military actions as 'irresponsible and aggressive,' stating that these actions have diminished prospects for a ceasefire.

The families of hostages still held in Gaza expressed profound concern regarding the recall of the negotiation team, with representatives stating they feel devastated by the decision.

They emphasized the danger their loved ones are in as negotiations falter.

Since the outbreak of conflict following the October 7, 2023 attack, a total of 251 hostages were captured, with 57 believed to remain in Gaza, including 34 already reported dead by the Israeli military.