Qatar denies decision to close Hamas office

Spokesman Majid Al-Ansari clarified in a press statement on Tuesday that any decision of this nature would be communicated officially. “This did not happen, and if such a decision was made, it would be officially issued,” Al-Ansari stated. 

He further emphasized that media speculation should not be mistaken for official policy. “Any decision to close down the office is a decision that you will hear about from us directly,” he said. 

Al-Ansari reiterated that representatives of Hamas are still welcome in Qatar and may travel freely. He noted, however, that the Hamas office in Doha has no active role unless involved in negotiations. 

“We coordinate with our partners in Türkiye with regard to the issues of Gaza and Lebanon … and Hamas leaders easily move,” Al-Ansari explained. 

The spokesman also disclosed that Qatar has suspended its mediation in Gaza negotiations due to what he described as a lack of seriousness among the parties involved. Despite the suspension, Qatar continues to work on reducing tensions in the region. 

“The suspension of negotiations does not mean that efforts to reduce escalation have stopped,” he added. 

Qatar, which hosts the Hamas office, has reiterated that recent claims about expelling Hamas leaders from the country are “inaccurate.” Al-Ansari underscored that any decisions regarding Hamas would be made public directly by Qatari authorities, countering speculation circulating in international media. 

This statement highlights Qatar’s continued diplomatic role in the region, as well as its collaboration with Türkiye on issues concerning Gaza and Lebanon. (ILKHA)