Doha: The official spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari, reiterated that the suspension by the State of Qatar of mediation efforts between the Israeli occupation and Hamas was due to the lack of seriousness of the parties involved in the negotiations.

He clarified that this does not mean the closure of the Hamas office in Doha.

During the Ministry’s weekly briefing, Dr. Al Ansari stressed that the Hamas office in Doha remains open, adding that there would be an official statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs if such a decision was made. He added that representatives of the movement are welcome in Qatar or should they choose to leave.

He noted that the negotiations are currently suspended pending a decision to resume them, adding that if Qatar shows seriousness in reaching an agreement, it will not hesitate to play a key role in alleviating the suffering in Gaza.

He attributed the suspension of mediation efforts to a lack of real commitment from the parties involved and stressed that Qatar will not allow itself to be blackmailed during the mediation process. He emphasized that the State of Qatar, from day one, was prepared to do whatever was necessary to reduce tensions, alleviate the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza and ensure the return of prisoners and hostages, a role it has consistently supported. .

Dr. Al Ansari pointed out that the parties were informed 10 days in advance that Qatar would suspend its efforts if no agreement was reached or if the country did not feel a serious commitment. He stressed that Qatar is now fully focused on stepping up the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Palestinians and is coordinating with Egypt and other Arab countries on this matter.

He reiterated that the State of Qatar remains ready to resume mediation efforts once favorable conditions are present, stressing that the suspension of negotiations does not mean a withdrawal from efforts to de-escalate the situation or a change in Qatar’s position on the need to end the war. .

He emphasized the clarity of the position of the State of Qatar to want the immediate end of the war and the provision of humanitarian aid, which he considers non-negotiable.

Regarding the decision of some European countries to ban the sale of arms to Israel, Dr. Al Ansari welcomed the decision, saying that providing arms to any side in the conflict prolongs wars. He added that the State of Qatar is unequivocal in supporting decisions that reduce tensions and conflicts worldwide.

Regarding Russia and Ukraine, the spokesperson highlighted the consistent position of the State of Qatar since the beginning of the war, stressing the importance of preserving the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and reaching a peaceful resolution. He said the State of Qatar supported all efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful settlement and actively worked to reunite children affected by the war and promote peace in the region.

The spokesman referred to Qatar’s statement of firm condemnation of the Israeli shelling of a UNRWA school housing displaced persons in Gaza’s Al Shati camp, which resulted in numerous casualties.

Dr Al Ansari also highlighted Qatar’s ongoing humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, with an aid plane carrying 16 tonnes of supplies and four ambulances, bringing the total aid to Afghanistan to 183 tonnes. Similarly, the airlift to Lebanon continues, with one plane delivering 26 tons of aid, bringing Qatar’s total assistance to Lebanon to 320 tons.