In the wake of Hamas refusing a ceasefire and hostage deal proposal, the US has asked Qatar to expel the Palestinian militant group’s leadership from Doha. Washington has expressed its dissatisfaction with Qatar’s ongoing hosting of Hamas leaders and stressed that the group’s refusal to deal in peaceful negotiations is unacceptable, a senior official confirmed it. The development comes after Hamas refused to agree on a short-term ceasefire plan in mid-October resulting in further escalation of ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Diplomatic efforts
Qatar has always played the role of a negotiator between Hamas, Israel and other stakeholders. It has also informed these groups that its leadership is no longer in the country. Although, officials from Hamas have refused to receive any such notice and the issue has been addressed publicly by the Qatari government.
On the other hand, a significant shift in diplomatic relations is observed as the US has been in direct talks with Doha regarding shutting down the Hamas political office. A definitive timeline for Hamas expulsion has not been allotted by Qatar’s foreign ministry despite the pressures.
US Pressure to curb regional tension
The US is adopting diplomatic efforts to restrict violence in Gaza especially as the new administration under Donald Trump is looming. International pressure is also increasing on Qatar for its role in protecting the Hamas leaders. An immediate action has been asked by the US lawmakers, particularly by the Republicans and has appealed to the US State Department to hold the assets of Hamas members who are staying in Qatar. An extradition of them has also been demanded. As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to increase in Gaza, the international frustration is also escalating because of Qatar’s longstanding alliance with Hamas.
(With inputs from Reuters)