In a significant development, Qatar is reevaluating its role as a mediator between Israel and Hamas, according to statements made by the country’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani. The move comes as the Gulf state faces mounting criticism and concerns over the effectiveness of its mediation efforts.
During a joint press conference with his Turkish counterpart in Doha, Sheikh Mohammed emphasised that Qatar is currently reassessing its position as a facilitator in the ongoing conflict. He expressed frustration over the misuse of Qatar’s mediation role by certain politicians for their narrow political interests. Without providing specific details, he stated, “Unfortunately, there has been misuse of such mediation and to exploit things such as mediation for a narrow political interest. This has led the state of Qatar to reevaluate the entire situation.”
Qatar, which has hosted Hamas’ political office in Doha for over a decade, has played a crucial role in negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian militant group. The country’s involvement was initially at the request of the Obama administration, aiming to establish indirect lines of communication with Hamas. However, recent criticism from various quarters has prompted a reconsideration of this role.
In a veiled reference to pro-Israel members of Congress and certain Israeli officials, Sheikh Mohammed accused “politicians with narrow interests” of harming Qatar through their “destructive statements.” As the hostage negotiations reached an impasse, bipartisan pressure increased on Qatar to leverage its relationship with the US-designated terrorist group it shelters. A group of eight senators, including the Democratic chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Ben Cardin, called for Qatar to expel Hamas’ political leaders if talks fail. Additionally, Republican senators introduced legislation threatening to revoke Qatar’s status as a major non-NATO ally unless it takes action against Hamas members.
