The spokesperson for Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Qatar’s mediation efforts to halt the war in Gaza remain suspended.
Majed bin Mohammed al-Ansari explained that this decision was made due to the lack of seriousness from the parties involved and that the suspension remains in place. However, he expressed Qatar’s readiness to re-engage in mediation efforts if the parties demonstrate seriousness and willingness to end the war and release prisoners.
Regarding Hamas’ political office in Qatar, Al-Ansari stated, “Hamas representatives are welcome in Qatar and free to travel if they wish. The office currently has no active role as negotiations are on hold, but Hamas representatives can move freely.” He added that Qatar coordinates with its partners, particularly in Turkey, on matters related to Gaza and Lebanon.
Al-Ansari reiterated that the Hamas office in Qatar has not been closed, saying, “If the office were closed, it would be announced from this platform. The suspension of mediation does not mean that efforts to de-escalate have ceased.”
He described Qatar’s relationship with the United States as strategic, stating, “Our relationship with the United States is strategic. We have dealt with various administrations, and the relationship remains strong, with continuous and ongoing coordination.”
On the issue of Israel’s war on Lebanon, he said, “Efforts are proceeding on parallel tracks, and diplomacy is active to reach a solution there. Qatar is one of five key parties working to find a political solution and is engaged in Arab diplomatic efforts to stop the fighting in Lebanon.”
Regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, Al-Ansari pointed out that Qatar’s mediation efforts are ongoing and go beyond the issue of reuniting children. He referenced Qatar’s role in working toward a Russian-Ukrainian agreement to prevent the targeting of oil and gas facilities in the ongoing conflict between the two countries.
