Qatar has temporarily suspended its role as a mediator in ceasefire and hostage release talks between Israel and Hamas, officials have confirmed.
The decision follows mounting frustrations with both parties’ unwillingness to negotiate seriously, as the war in Gaza continues.
In a statement, Qatar’s foreign ministry clarified that it had notified the involved parties 10 days ago of its intent to halt mediation efforts if no agreement was reached during the last round of talks.
Qatar reaffirmed that it would resume its mediation only when Hamas and Israel demonstrate a genuine willingness to end the war.
While reports circulated that Qatar had agreed with the United States to expel Hamas’s political office from Doha due to the group’s refusal to engage in good faith negotiations, Qatar’s foreign ministry denied these claims, calling them inaccurate. Hamas officials also rejected the reports.
Qatar maintains that its office in Doha remains an important communication channel and has previously contributed to ceasefires.
Hamas has had a presence in Doha since 2012, with the Obama administration reportedly playing a role in facilitating this arrangement. However, recent tensions have highlighted growing challenges in Qatar’s relationship with the group.
The latest developments underscore the shifting dynamics, with some speculating that Hamas could relocate to other countries, such as Turkey or Iran.
In recent weeks, Hamas has rejected short-term ceasefire proposals, demanding a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.
Meanwhile, Israel has faced pressure from the US to allow more humanitarian aid into the region, with warnings of dire conditions in northern Gaza.
The escalating diplomatic pressure comes as the Biden administration’s influence on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears to wane, with Netanyahu’s government continuing to reject negotiations and US-led peace proposals.
In response, the US may intensify efforts to apply pressure on Hamas, hoping that Qatar, traditionally a key mediator, will support its approach. The next steps will likely depend on how Hamas responds to these shifting geopolitical forces and whether Qatar chooses to re-engage in talks.
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