Qatar has decided to suspend its role as a mediator between Israel and Hamas, concluding that both sides are no longer engaging in negotiations in good faith.
The Qatari Foreign Ministry announced on Saturday that the decision came after both Israel and Hamas refused to engage constructively in talks.
Qatar had hosted Hamas’ political office in Doha since 2012 and had mediated discussions between the two parties, which do not officially communicate directly. However, after a lack of progress and an unwillingness from both sides to make concessions, Qatar’s efforts have been deemed ineffective.
Qatar’s mediation began with attempts to broker ceasefires and release hostages, but following a series of failed negotiations, Qatar concluded that both sides were using the process for political purposes rather than genuine peace efforts.
Hamas, which demands a permanent ceasefire, and Israel, which has rejected that demand, have been at an impasse. Qatar informed both parties that it would halt mediation unless progress was made, but after the recent failure of talks, it withdrew.
Hamas’ political office in Doha may no longer remain operational unless negotiations resume, as Qatar indicated it could reopen the office if both sides show a genuine willingness to negotiate. The suspension comes as Israel continues its military campaign, which has led to significant casualties among Palestinians, while hostages remain in Gaza. Despite Qatar’s previous involvement in hostage agreements, both Hamas’ refusal to release hostages and Israel’s new demands have led to a breakdown in talks.
