By Annarita Magliaro.

Qatar has for many years played a key role as a mediator in the Israel-Hamas conflict, leveraging its  unique position to facilitate dialogue and act as a negotiator in the ceasefires. However, on November 9^th 2024, Qatar took a firm stance and, as a consequence of reportedly frustration over a deadlock in the progress towards a ceasefire agreement, opted to suspend the mediation efforts between Hamas and Israel. [1]

The distinctive diplomatic attitude of Qatar is the main reason behind its one-off stance, unlike many other Gulf neighbors, it maintained  open channels with both the West and factions like Hamas. This dual interaction has positioned Qatar as a credible intermediary, capable of communicating with countries that otherwise would not have any contact.Doha’s effort in fostering a “neutral ground” has enabled a space for dialogue, hosting Hamas’ leadership. [2]

As a matter of fact, in November 2023, Qatar acted as the main catalyst to convene to a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. [3] Thanks to this truce, hostages had been released and the delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza was also allowed: an emblematic example of Qatar’s capacity to influence both sides and reach an agreement. [4]

Nonetheless, the satisfaction with the previous achievements has proved not to be enough to convince Qatar to take on the same role in the current negotiations. Officials have reported that both Hamas and Israel have lacked the willingness to negotiate in good-faith, which inevitably led every ceasefire discussion to turn into a stalemate. A diplomatic source stated, “The Qataris informed both the Israelis and Hamas that as long as there is a refusal to negotiate a deal in good faith, they cannot continue to mediate.” [5]

In a context where parties have entrenched positions and mutual mistrust, the decision to opt out of the processes shows the difficulties encountered in such a context even by a third party. This withdrawal not only urges the need for genuine commitment from both sides, but also reflects a strategic reassessment of Qatar, which has thus far been highly involved in the search for a sustainable solution. 

The implications that come from this suspension of mediation resonate on the conflict itself. The absence of Qatar may lead to a reduction in the communication channels between the two parties, which may in turn lead to tensions escalating more rapidly and could preclude the establishment of a permanent ceasefire. 

Moreover, the decision may also affect other countries and their roles in the conflict. Countries like Egypt, which have engaged in the mediation, will most likely face growing pressure to fill the void left by Qatar. [6] Ultimately, the uniqueness of Qatar strategy and relationships may have been imperative to the replication of the past mediation. 

The contribution to the Middle Eastern diplomacy by Qatar has been more extensive that the Israel Hamas conflict. The nation has a record of different mediation interventions in regional disputes, and its strategic alliances and wealth have surely played a role in them. For instance, Qatar has facilitated negotiations between the United States and the Taliban, and mediated in conflicts in Lebanon, Yemen, and Sudan. [7]

The mixed reaction that characterized Qatar’s mediation in the Israel-Hamas conflict have never failed to raise some doubts about the real interests behind those efforts, as though many share the view that these processes are crucial for the achieving of peace, others see Qatar holding a position of power and in turn support for Hamas. [8] This dual role of mediator and supporter has put the country in a complex situation in terms of regional politics. [9]

This withdrawal from self-procured duty is a turning point for the ongoing conflict: it reflects the challenges faced by the facilitators of dialogue between parties with long-standing hostilities and highlights the little room for maneuver without the full commitment of all those involved. As the situation unfolds, the international community will keep a close eye on the impact of Qatar’s withdrawal and the consequences on regional diplomacy.  

Edited by Justine Peries.

References

[1] “Officials Say Qatar Is Suspending Its Gaza Mediation Efforts Between Israel and Hamas.” PBS NewsHour, PBS, www.pbs.org/newshour/world/officials-say-qatar-is-suspending-its-gaza-mediation-efforts-between-israel-and-hamas. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

[2] “Explained: Why Qatar Assumes Mediator Role in Israel-Hamas War.” WION, www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-qatar-assumes-mediator-role-in-israel-hamas-war-652810. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

[3] “Israel-Hamas Deal on Temporary Ceasefire in Gaza: All You Need to Know.” Al Jazeera, www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/11/22/israel-hamas-deal-on-temporary-ceasefire-in-gaza-all-you-need-to-know. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

[4] “Mediator Qatar Announces Key Points of Israel-Hamas Truce.” Al Jazeera, 23 Nov. 2023, www.aljazeera.com/program/newsfeed/2023/11/23/mediator-qatar-announces-key-points-of-israel-hamas-truce. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

[5] “Qatar Suspends Mediation Efforts Between Hamas and Israel.” Khmer Times, www.khmertimeskh.com/501589251/qatar-suspends-mediation-efforts-between-hamas-israel. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

[6] “Qatar Suspends Mediation Efforts on Gaza, Officials Say.” BBC News, www.bbc.com/news/articles/c774d4p2mx6o. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

[7] “Qatar as a Mediator in Conflict.” Wikipedia, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qatar_as_a_mediator_in_conflict. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

[8] “Qatar Criticises Israel’s Netanyahu over Hamas Comments.” Al Jazeera, www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/2/19/qatar-criticises-israels-netanyahu-over-hamas-comments. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

[9] “Qatar’s Balancing Act in Gaza and with Hamas.” Foreign Affairs, www.foreignaffairs.com/israel/qatars-balancing-act-gaza-hamas. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

[Cover Image] Photo by Bhabin Tamang: licensed under Pexels.