What It Is About
Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani held a significant meeting with Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh on Tuesday. The objective was to push for compromises on the group’s recent amendments to Israel’s hostage-for-ceasefire proposal, as disclosed by a government official to The Times of Israel.
Why It Matters
The core issues impeding a potential agreement center around Hamas’s demand for a permanent ceasefire and the complete withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) during the initial phase of the deal. In contrast, Israel maintains that it will only consider ending the conflict once all hostages are freed and Hamas has been effectively removed.
The Big Picture
In a related development, the US assistant secretary of state for near eastern affairs characterized Yahya Sinwar, Hamas leader in Gaza, as a “psychopath” with “messianic” tendencies while providing testimony at a Senate subcommittee hearing. Sinwar’s extremist views and firm hold on power further complicate the mediation process.
Driving the News
Barbara Leaf, the US assistant secretary of state for near eastern affairs, acknowledged Israel’s mixed feelings concerning Qatar’s role in the mediation. Despite this, Qatar remains a crucial intermediary between Israel and Hamas. Leaf emphasized Qatar’s tireless efforts to negotiate the release of hostages. However, she also highlighted the frustration felt by both the families of the hostages and the Israeli government over the perceived limitations in Qatar’s influence on Hamas.
Between the Lines
Leaf revealed that officials in Doha exert significant pressure on Hamas leaders residing in Qatar. Despite this, Yahya Sinwar’s deeply entrenched control presents a significant hurdle. Sinwar’s radical belief system and adamant stance imply that Qatar cannot fully leverage its influence over him.
What to Watch
Egypt and Qatar continue to lead the mediation efforts between Israel and Hamas. The ongoing efforts saw Hamas proposing amendments to Israel’s latest terms, although Israel’s initial response characterized these as a rejection of the offer. Despite this, dialogues aimed at reaching a feasible agreement are still in progress.
In Summary
Qatar’s engagement and intermediary role serve the best interests of both Israel and the United States, according to senior US officials. As the mediations advance, the international community watches closely, hopeful for a resolution that prioritizes peace and the safety of the hostages.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.