Senior US officials have indicated they will no longer accept Hamas’s presence in Qatar, citing the group’s rejection of ceasefire proposals. Following a directive from Washington, Qatar may convene to expel Hamas from Doha, a move reflecting escalating US frustrations with Israel and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Potential alternative bases for Hamas include Turkey or Iran, with increasing concerns about leadership safety following targeted assassinations.
Senior officials from the United States have expressed their decision to no longer tolerate the presence of Hamas representatives in Qatar. This stance arises from allegations that Hamas rejected recent proposals aimed at facilitating a ceasefire in Gaza and resolving hostages’ situations. According to anonymous sources, the Qatari government was informed to advise Hamas to close its political office, a request reportedly made ten days ago. Hamas has maintained a political base in Doha since 2012, initially upon the Obama administration’s request to foster communication with the group. Despite these reports, Hamas officials have denied any intention to vacate their office, while the Qatari government has not issued a statement. Qatar has been a pivotal US ally in the region, hosting a major American airbase and participating in critical negotiations involving Iran, the Taliban, and Russia. Along with the US and Egypt, Qatar has been significantly engaged in unsuccessful talks to secure a ceasefire amid the year-long conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Amid failed negotiations in mid-October, Hamas declined a short-term ceasefire proposition, insisting on a comprehensive halt to hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. Concurrently, Israel has also faced allegations of rejecting diplomatic overtures, with the former Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant, criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for dismissing peace proposals against the advice of security advisors. Dr. H A Hellyer from the Royal United Services Institute (Rusi) suggests that Hamas may soon have to relocate, indicating that “the writing on the wall has been there for months.” The US administration’s push for Hamas’s relocation appears to be an effort to establish some form of peace agreement before the current administration’s term concludes in January. Should Hamas be compelled to leave Doha, potential alternative bases could include Iran or Turkey. However, the assassination of previous Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh raises safety concerns regarding Iran. Turkey, as a NATO member, offers a safer environment and diplomatic opportunities, recent talks around humanitarian aid in Gaza highlighting this potential. Hamas leaders’ safety has become a pivotal concern following the deaths of key figures, including Haniyeh and Yahya Sinwar, further complicating the organization’s future. Observers from the European Council on Foreign Relations note that Hamas has adopted a collective leadership model to minimize the impact of potential assassinations. The Biden administration faces increasing frustration with Israel’s handling of the conflict. Recent warnings from US officials indicated that Israel may face policy repercussions if humanitarian aid is not allowed to flow into Gaza. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in northern Gaza has been described as “apocalyptic.” The deteriorating relationship between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu has heightened tensions, with the Biden administration urging improvements in the humanitarian situation. Dr. Hellyer asserts the flaws in US negotiation strategies, criticizing the administration for permitting Netanyahu to disregard established red lines. The prospective return of Donald Trump to the presidency raises uncertainties regarding US influence over Israeli policies and underscores the potential for Netanyahu’s coalition to feel emboldened. Thus, the current administration seeks leverage on Hamas to forge a resolution, but it remains to be seen if Qatar will comply with such pressures.
The relationship between the United States and Hamas has been contentious, particularly given the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Hamas has maintained a presence in Qatar since 2012, which was initially facilitated by the Obama administration to enable communication with the group. The geopolitical dynamics in the region are complex, with Qatar serving as a key ally for the US and involved in negotiations for peace and humanitarian aid. The recent shift in US policy reflects a broader frustration with the ongoing hostilities in Gaza and a push for resolution before the presidential transition in January.
In summary, the United States has taken a decisive stance against the presence of Hamas in Qatar, correlating with ongoing frustrations regarding the conflict in Gaza. The potential for Hamas’s relocation raises questions about the group’s future and diplomatic engagements, as safety concerns mount amid Israeli actions. The geopolitical landscape remains tenuous, with the Biden administration striving to influence outcomes prior to the end of its term, while the incoming Trump administration could reshape strategies significantly.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
