Qatar suspends its mediation between Hamas and Israel

Illustrative photo from open sources

Qatar has decided to suspend its mediation efforts between Hamas (an organization recognized by the US as a terrorist organization – ed.) and Israel due to frustration with the lack of progress.

After Hamas rejected the latest ceasefire offer, Qatar accepted the Biden administration's advice that it was not advisable for Hamas to continue operating its office in Doha and told the group's representatives to leave the country, Voice of America reports, according to anonymous sources in the US administration.

A senior Hamas official told AFP that he was aware of Qatar's decision to suspend the office's operations, but added that the group had not yet received any instructions to leave the country.

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A diplomatic source familiar with the matter told the AP that Qatar does not want to participate in the peace process “as long as there is a refusal to negotiate in good faith.” The source said the Qataris also said “the Hamas political office is no longer fulfilling its functions.”

Qatar has promised it will “most likely return to peace efforts” if both sides demonstrate “serious political willingness” to reach an agreement.

The source said Qatar has “notified both sides, Israel and Hamas, as well as the U.S. administration” about their decision.

“The Qataris conveyed to the US administration that they would be ready to resume mediation when both sides… demonstrate a sincere readiness to return to the negotiating table,” the source added.

The political leadership of Hamas has been living in Qatar, where a large US military base is located, with Washington's consent since 2012.

Prepared by: Sergei Daga