What it is about

Qatar recently requested that Hamas leaders vacate Doha due to dissatisfaction with the terror organization’s management of hostage negotiations. This decision was aimed at encouraging the group to compromise, but the talks have yet to achieve significant progress.

Why it matters

The move marks a significant shift in Qatar’s approach to Hamas and reflects broader frustration from multiple parties, including Israel, the United States, and Egypt. The development underscores the complex dynamics and challenges in reaching a hostage deal amidst ongoing conflict.

The Big Picture

This action by Qatar, spearheaded by Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, is a notable first since the Israel-Hamas war began. Qatar’s review of its mediator role follows persistent Israeli criticism regarding Doha’s failure to adequately pressure Hamas during negotiations.

Key Details

Al-Thani’s frustration extends to both counterparts: Israel due to their repeated criticism and Hamas for their reluctance to compromise. Hamas leaders temporarily relocated to Turkey where they met with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who supported their anti-Israel efforts.

Egypt also stepped in to broker negotiations but faced challenges, leading to Qatar allowing Hamas leaders to return to Doha in a renewed attempt to keep talks alive. Despite this gesture, the discussions eventually fell apart.

What They’re Saying

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli leaders have asserted that Qatar needed to intensify pressure on Hamas. A senior Israeli official has insisted that Qatar should go beyond expulsion threats and freeze Hamas assets to apply more pressure.

Between the Lines

The differing priorities in the negotiations are clear: Hamas desires a hostage deal leading to a permanent end to hostilities, while Israel is willing to agree only to a temporary cessation, focusing on dismantling Hamas. Egypt’s unaligned mediation strategies further complicated the already delicate situation.

What’s Next

Despite the breakdown in talks, Hamas leadership remains in Qatar, with Doha continuing efforts to resume negotiations, although the path forward remains uncertain. Direct intervention from the U.S., particularly from Secretary of State Antony Blinken who suggested expelling Hamas leaders if progress isn’t made, could influence future developments.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.