Qatar responded sharply to criticism from Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) regarding its mediation efforts in the Israel-Hamas conflict, labeling his remarks as “unconstructive” and denouncing his suggestion to reassess the U.S.’s relationship with Doha.
Hoyer’s statement on Monday urged Qatar to convey to Hamas the potential consequences if the group obstructs progress toward securing the release of hostages and achieving a temporary ceasefire in Gaza.
“Qatar needs to send a clear message to Hamas that there will be repercussions if it continues to impede efforts to release the hostages and reach a temporary ceasefire,” Hoyer remarked.
Steny Hoyer (Credits: Politico)
He suggested punitive actions such as cutting off funding to Hamas or denying refuge to its leaders in Doha. Hoyer also warned of a need to reassess the U.S.’s ties with Qatar if it fails to apply pressure on Hamas.
In response, the Qatari Embassy in the U.S. rebuked Hoyer’s statement, characterizing it as counterproductive and criticizing his suggestion of reevaluating the U.S.-Qatar relationship. The Embassy emphasized Qatar’s role as a mediator and highlighted its hosting of U.S. military presence in the region.
“We understand the frustration regarding the lack of progress in negotiations between Hamas and Israel,” the Embassy stated. “However, blaming and threatening the mediator is not conducive to the peace process, especially when directed at a friend and Major Non-NATO Ally like Qatar, which hosts a substantial U.S. military presence in the Middle East.”
House Majority Leader Rep. Steny Hoyer (Credits: CNN)
The Embassy clarified that Qatar does not control the actions of Hamas or Israel and emphasized that both parties are responsible for reaching an agreement.
It also rejected Hoyer’s proposal to deny refuge to Hamas leaders in Qatar, reminding that Qatar’s mediation role was at the request of the U.S. due to the reluctance of Israel and Hamas to engage directly.
The Israel-Hamas conflict has resulted in numerous casualties and the capture of hostages, with Hamas initiating attacks on Israel, leading to a military response and casualties on both sides. As negotiations continue, the situation remains tense, with Qatar playing a key role in mediation efforts.
