Qatar Threatens to Expel Hamas if It Rejects Ceasefire Deal
In a significant development, Qatar has issued a stark ultimatum to Hamas: accept the proposed ceasefire deal or face expulsion from Doha. This move comes amidst escalating pressure from the international community, particularly from the United States and Israel, as the conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip nears its ninth month. According to a U.S. official, Qatar has been warning Hamas for months about potential expulsion, but this threat has now become concrete. This shift follows persistent requests from U.S. President Joe Biden and vocal criticism from Israel. The U.S. has been proactive in urging key players in the Middle East, including Egypt and Turkey, to leverage their influence over Hamas. This includes threatening to freeze bank accounts and restricting travel for Hamas members, aiming to intensify pressure on the group. U.S. State Department spokesperson Matt Miller highlighted the critical roles of Egypt and Qatar in mediating the ceasefire deal. "
