Official statements from the Qatari government or major international news outlets

After Trump's Election Victory, Qatar Reportedly Orders Hamas to Leave; Hamas Denies Expulsion

Nov 9, 2024, 05:09 PM

Qatar has reportedly instructed Hamas officials residing in the country to leave immediately, following pressure from the United States and other countries. U.S. Senators, including Marco Rubio and Roger Wicker, along with 12 colleagues, sent a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Attorney General Merrick Garland, urging the U.S. government to pressure Qatar to freeze the assets of Hamas leaders and expel them from Doha. The senators specifically called for the extradition of Hamas leaders Khaled Meshaal and Khalil al-Hayya. Some reports indicate that Qatar's decision comes after Donald Trump's election victory, suggesting a shift in the regional political landscape. Moreover, there are speculations that Hamas leaders may relocate to Turkey, where they have previously held offices. However, Hamas officials have denied receiving any request to leave Qatar, and the Qatari Foreign Ministry, through its spokesperson Majed Al-Ansari, has stated that reports about expelling Hamas or withdrawing from Gaza ceasefire mediation are inaccurate. Doha believes that the Hamas office in the country "no longer serves its purpose" but insists it will resume mediation efforts when both sides show willingness and seriousness to end the conflict. Qatar has played a role in mediating ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas but has expressed frustration over the lack of progress. The United States has communicated to Qatar that Hamas leaders should no longer be welcome in any American partner's capital. The situation remains fluid, with conflicting reports about Qatar's stance and the future of Hamas's political leadership residing in Doha.