Truce deal delay: Hamas, Israel blame each other

Hamas and Israel traded accusations, on Wednesday, over delays in finalizing a ceasefire and hostage release agreement for Gaza, despite continued efforts by mediators to broker a deal in the latest round of negotiations.

Indirect talks between the two warring parties, mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the United States, have taken place in Doha in recent days, rekindling hope for a truce that has proven elusive.

On Wednesday, however, both sides accused the other of throwing up roadblocks to a deal. "The ceasefire and prisoner exchange negotiations are continuing in Doha under the mediation of Qatar and Egypt in a serious manner... but the occupation has set new conditions concerning withdrawal (of troops), the ceasefire, prisoners, and the return of displaced people, which has delayed reaching an agreement," Hamas said in a statement.

It did not elaborate on the conditions imposed by Israel. Israel swiftly refuted the accusations, saying it was the Palestinian militant group that was creating "new obstacles" to an agreement.