Janice R. Andrews
The United States has cautioned Turkey against hosting senior Hamas leaders, following reports of their relocation to Ankara after Qatar ceased its mediation efforts with Israel.
US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized the Biden administration’s concerns on Monday, stating, “Leaders of a vicious terrorist organization should not live comfortably anywhere, especially in the capital of a key ally.”
This warning follows a report by Israel’s public broadcaster Kan, claiming that prominent Hamas figures left Doha for Ankara after Qatar ended its role in ceasefire negotiations. Frustrated by the lack of progress in resolving the Gaza conflict, Qatar declared the Hamas political office no longer functional and halted its hosting arrangements.
For years, Qatar served as a mediator, providing a base for Hamas representatives to engage in peace talks. However, US officials recently suggested that the presence of Hamas in Qatar had become a barrier to progress, prompting Doha to sever ties.
The Turkish Foreign Ministry dismissed claims of a permanent Hamas relocation, asserting that members of the Hamas Political Bureau occasionally visit but do not reside in Turkey. “The allegations that Hamas has moved to Turkey are untrue,” the ministry stated, adding that no official meetings have occurred.
Despite Turkey’s denial, the situation adds strain to its relations with the US, already complicated by Ankara’s deteriorating ties with Israel. The fallout stems from Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, initiated after Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attacks on southern Israel.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been a vocal critic of Israel’s actions in Gaza, describing them as genocide. Last week, Erdogan announced the termination of diplomatic ties with Israel, affirming Turkey’s stance. Erdogan’s refusal to designate Hamas as a terrorist organization has further complicated Turkey’s relationship with Western nations.
This development highlights escalating tensions in the Middle East as key players navigate the complex dynamics of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The US warning signals potential diplomatic challenges for Turkey, particularly in maintaining its alliances while managing its position on the crisis.
