Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs dismissed recent reports suggesting it has withdrawn from its mediation role in Gaza or closed Hamas’s office in Doha, clarifying that these claims are “inaccurate.” Qatar emphasized its commitment to mediation, noting it will resume efforts with partners once the necessary commitment to ending the conflict is demonstrated.
In a statement to Qatar News Agency, Ministry spokesman Majed Al-Ansari explained that Qatar had informed involved parties about its decision to suspend mediation efforts if no agreement was reached in the latest round of talks, held about ten days prior. “Qatar will be at the forefront of efforts to end the war, bring home hostages and detainees, and alleviate the suffering of civilians facing a catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza,” Al-Ansari stated.
Al-Ansari underscored that Qatar will not tolerate the manipulation of its mediation efforts, especially after observing instances of parties retracting from agreed-upon terms following previous ceasefires and hostage exchanges. He pointed out that the mediation process cannot be exploited for narrow political agendas or to justify the continuation of hostilities.
Concerning Hamas’s office in Doha, Al-Ansari clarified that its purpose is to serve as a communication channel between relevant parties. He noted that the office has previously facilitated several ceasefire agreements and the release of hostages and prisoners, including a successful exchange of women and children in November last year.
Earlier reports by Reuters, citing unnamed sources, suggested that Qatar might step back from its mediation efforts unless both Hamas and Israel demonstrate genuine interest in negotiations. These reports also implied that the Hamas political office in Doha was no longer fulfilling its purpose. However, French news agency AFP quoted a Hamas leader asserting that the movement has not received any request from Qatar to leave or shut down its Doha office.
Since the escalation of violence in Gaza on October 7, 2023, Qatar has led mediation efforts alongside Egypt and the United States. A temporary ceasefire was established in November 2023, allowing a prisoner exchange, but subsequent rounds of mediation have failed to bring about a lasting peace. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 40,000 Palestinians, widespread destruction, and an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.
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Author: nor-eleslam
Qatar’s Gaza mediation efforts
