Qatar is currently deliberating on whether to close Hamas' office in Doha, the capital of Qatar, as it questions the commitment of both the Palestinian militant group and Israel to reach a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. The foreign ministry spokesperson announced on Tuesday that a decision has not yet been made.
Pressure has been mounting on Qatar from Israel and US politicians regarding its ties with Hamas. However, Qatar stated that as long as communication channels remain open, there may not be a necessity to shut down the Hamas political bureau in Doha.
The spokesperson emphasized that if the office continues to play a role in mediating ongoing efforts, there would be no reason to terminate its presence in Doha. Qatar is urging both parties to demonstrate more flexibility and seriousness in the negotiations.
Progress in the talks has stalled, with meetings between negotiators in Qatar coming to a halt due to a deadlock in the lengthy indirect discussions between Hamas and Israel. The lack of advancement, along with criticism of Qatar's association with Hamas, has prompted Doha to reassess its position as an intermediary in the stagnant negotiations.
