Suspending negotiations can be 'normal procedure' in complex Gaza ceasefire talks, mediators say

The Arab mediators between the US and Israel on one side, and Hamas on the other, have said that it is "normal procedure" to suspend negotiations for a time in order to carry out consultations.

The joint statement from Qatar and Egypt on Friday came a day after the Israeli and US delegations withdrew from Doha, where Gaza ceasefire talks were being held.

The US envoy in particular even suggested he would seek "alternative options" to this particular diplomatic route. Hamas officials said they were "surprised" by that reaction. 

"The State of Qatar and the Arab Republic of Egypt affirm the continuation of their intensive efforts in the mediation file of Gaza Strip, aiming to reach an agreement that brings an end to the war, alleviates the humanitarian suffering in the enclave, ensures the protection
of civilians, and facilitates the exchange of detainees and prisoners," the joint statement said.

"The two countries indicate that some progress has been achieved during the most recent intensive round of negotiations, which lasted for three weeks. They affirm that the suspension of negotiations with a view to holding consultations before resuming dialogue once again is a normal procedure within the context of these complex negotiations," Egypt and Qatar noted.

"The two states call for refraining from being swayed by leaks circulated by certain media outlets in attempts to undermine these efforts and influence the course of the negotiation process. They emphasize that such leaks do not reflect reality and originate from parties
uninformed about the progress of the negotiations," the statement warned.