Sun Dec 07 11:51:43 UTC 2025: Summary:
Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, speaking at the Doha Forum, advocated for engaging with non-state actors like Hamas as crucial for achieving regional peace. He defended Qatar’s role as a mediator, emphasizing that communication with these groups, facilitated at the request of the US, has led to ceasefires and hostage releases. He refuted claims that Qatari aid benefits Hamas, insisting it goes directly to the Palestinian people. He also criticized Israel’s attack on Qatar’s mediation efforts and expressed Qatar’s commitment to supporting Gaza’s reconstruction but not at the expense of accountability for the destruction caused. He also vehemently opposed the forced displacement of Palestinians.
News Article:
Qatari PM Advocates Dialogue with Hamas for Regional Peace
Doha, Qatar – In a bold statement at the Doha Forum, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani asserted that achieving lasting regional peace requires engaging with non-state actors, including Hamas. He emphasized that Qatar’s role as a mediator, at the request of the United States, has been instrumental in securing ceasefires and releasing hostages.
“You cannot resolve or reach a solution if you have no one speaking to non-state actors,” Sheikh Mohammed told journalist Tucker Carlson at the forum. He clarified that Qatar’s relationship with Hamas, including hosting their office since 2012, serves primarily as a communication channel for facilitating ceasefires and aid to Gaza.
The Prime Minister vehemently denied accusations that Qatari aid is diverted to Hamas, stating that all assistance is transparently directed to the Palestinian people, with the knowledge and facilitation of both the United States and Israel. He criticized politicians for using the situation to fuel political narratives.
Sheikh Mohammed also addressed Israel’s attack on Qatar’s mediation efforts, calling it an “unethical move” that undermines the very concept of mediation. He revealed that former US President Donald Trump expressed “frustration” and “disappointment” over the incident.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister affirmed Qatar’s commitment to supporting the reconstruction of Gaza but insisted that those responsible for the destruction should be held accountable. He also firmly opposed any forced displacement of Palestinians, asserting their right to remain in their homeland.