Qatar responds to speculation on Gaza mediation, Hamas office
Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al-Ansari clarified that reports about Qatar withdrawing from its role as a mediator for a Gaza ceasefire are inaccurate.
He stated that Qatar had informed the parties 10 days ago during the latest negotiations that it would pause its mediation efforts between Hamas and 'Israel' if no agreement was reached.
However, Qatar remains ready to resume its efforts with partners when there is a genuine commitment to ending the ongoing war and alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Ansari added.
He emphasized that Qatar will not allow its mediation to be exploited, noting instances of "manipulation and backtracking" by parties since the collapse of the initial prisoner exchange deal involving women and children.
Read more: Qatar reportedly warns Hamas over Doha office, exits Gaza talks
Ansari reaffirmed Qatar's steadfast support for the Palestinian people in their pursuit of their rights, including the establishment of an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
In response to reports regarding Hamas' office in Doha, Ansari said they are also inaccurate. He explained that the office's primary role is to serve as a communication channel between the concerned parties, which has facilitated previous ceasefire agreements and contributed to the exchange of women and children prisoners in November 2023. He urged the public to rely on official sources for accurate information.
