DOHA: In a significant development, Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Majed Al Ansari, announced that the country has decided to suspend its mediation efforts regarding the ongoing Gaza conflict due to the lack of seriousness from the involved parties.
Speaking at a routine press briefing, Al Ansari emphasized Qatar's commitment to peace and stability but clarified that the decision to suspend its mediation does not signal an end to the broader diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation in the region.
Al Ansari explained that the suspension stems from the unwillingness of the parties to demonstrate real commitment to the negotiation process, and stated that Qatar "will not accept being exploited for political purposes."
He reiterated that Doha’s primary position remains clear and firm: a call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the delivery of humanitarian aid to the region.
“Our position has always been consistent. We seek an immediate halt to the violence and the unimpeded flow of aid into Gaza. However, these efforts cannot succeed if the parties involved are not genuinely committed to dialogue and peace,” Al Ansari said, adding that Qatar is prepared to re-engage in the mediation process should there be a renewed seriousness from all sides.
No closure of Hamas' office... yet
Al Ansari also addressed recent speculation regarding the closure of Hamas' political office in Doha. Some reports had suggested that Qatar had asked Hamas leadership to leave the country, but the Qatari spokesperson dismissed these claims.
He clarified that, should any such action be taken, it would be officially announced by the Qatari Foreign Ministry, not through unofficial sources.
“Reports that Qatar has demanded the departure of Hamas leaders from Doha are inaccurate,” Al Ansari confirmed. “The office has not been closed, and Hamas representatives are still welcome in Qatar. If the situation changes, we will communicate that directly, through official channels.”
Al Ansari emphasized that the office of Hamas in Doha is inactive for the time being and has no real function unless it is involved in active negotiations.
He further stressed that Qatar continues to coordinate closely with its regional partner, Turkey, on matters related to Gaza and Lebanon, and that Hamas leaders are free to travel between countries as needed.
"We maintain an open line of communication with Hamas. However, until the political office plays a meaningful role in the negotiation process, it remains a non-operational entity," he said.
Suspension of mediation does not mean a halt to diplomatic efforts
The Qatari spokesperson also took the opportunity to address the broader context of Qatar’s diplomatic efforts in the region. While the country has suspended its direct mediation in the Gaza conflict, Al Ansari made it clear that efforts to reduce tensions and encourage peace in Gaza are far from over.
He noted that Qatar remains actively engaged in regional diplomacy, particularly in Lebanon, where it is one of five countries working toward a political solution. Qatar is also deeply involved in Western diplomatic initiatives aimed at securing a ceasefire in the region.
"The suspension of mediation in Gaza does not mean that our efforts to de-escalate the conflict have ceased. Qatar is still playing a key role in broader diplomatic efforts to bring about a halt to the violence," Al Ansari stated.
He also mentioned Qatar's ongoing diplomatic work in other global hotspots, including the Ukrainian-Russian conflict. Al Ansari highlighted that Qatar’s efforts go beyond just one issue, noting the country’s active role in various international diplomatic initiatives.
He reiterated Qatar’s commitment to peace, stability, and the promotion of dialogue in conflict zones around the world.
"We are engaged in numerous diplomatic efforts beyond Gaza, including in Ukraine, where Qatar is working to facilitate dialogue and peace in the broader regional context. Our commitment to mediation and conflict resolution remains strong," Al-Ansari said.
Qatar’s humanitarian aid efforts continue
Al Ansari also gave an update on Qatar’s ongoing humanitarian aid efforts in the region. He confirmed that the Qatari government has completed its air bridge to Lebanon, delivering a total of 320 tonnes of aid.
This move is part of Qatar’s broader commitment to providing support to countries affected by regional conflicts and humanitarian crises.
"We are deeply committed to providing humanitarian assistance to those in need. The air bridge to Lebanon is just one part of Qatar’s ongoing efforts to support people affected by the conflicts in the region," Al Ansari stated.
He also reiterated that Qatar would continue to work with international partners to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those who need it most.
The country has been at the forefront of providing assistance to war-torn regions, offering medical supplies, food, and essential services to displaced populations.
Qatar’s role in global diplomacy
While Qatar’s immediate focus is on the situation in Gaza and Lebanon, Al Ansari also highlighted the country's broader role in international diplomacy.
He reaffirmed Qatar’s strategic relationship with the United States, noting the regular coordination between the two countries on a variety of global issues.
“Our relationship with the United States is of strategic importance. We coordinate regularly on a range of issues, from regional security to global diplomatic efforts. Qatar remains an active player on the world stage, engaging with various stakeholders to advance peace and stability,” he said.
Al Ansari's comments underscored Qatar's multifaceted role in global diplomacy. As a nation that has long positioned itself as a mediator in regional and international conflicts, Qatar continues to leverage its influence to foster dialogue and peace in various parts of the world.
Looking ahead: The future of Qatar’s mediation efforts
As Qatar waits for a renewed commitment from the parties involved in the Gaza conflict, Al-Ansari’s statements suggest that the country’s mediation efforts will continue, albeit with a more cautious approach.
Qatar has made it clear that it will not continue to mediate in an environment where the involved parties are not genuinely interested in reaching a peaceful solution.
However, Al Ansari's strong reaffirmation of Qatar's commitment to peace, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic engagement signals that the country's role as a mediator in the region remains crucial.
If the circumstances change, Qatar will be ready to resume its mediation efforts in Gaza, but only with parties that are willing to engage in meaningful dialogue.
With Qatar’s diplomatic efforts continuing in various conflict zones, the world will be watching to see how the country navigates the complex dynamics of the Gaza conflict and its broader role in regional and global peace efforts.
