A train was placed at the center of the map following a string of discreet events. Talks involving Israel, the United States, Hamas, and other players have shaped the ongoing war in Gaza. This emirate, known for its sophisticated foreign policy and a population just over two and a half million, has emerged as a major regional mediator and a significant global power. This role is not new: three years ago it hosted negotiations between the United States and the Taliban that led to the withdrawal of North American troops from Afghanistan. More recently, it helped arrange a prisoner exchange between Washington and Tehran.
In the current cycle of conflict with Hamas and Israel, Doha has become a mandatory stop for the two primary powers involved in the crisis. A few hours after key discussions, Anthony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, left and arrived in Doha on October 13 following meetings with senior Qatari officials. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, the Iranian Foreign Minister, also met with the Hamas leadership in Doha. The Iranian representative returned to the country after the first trip, while discussions in this Persian Gulf city continued with an air of secrecy. In the same week, several sources suggested that ten to fifteen captives held by the Islamists could be released as part of a Qatari-mediated deal in exchange for an end to the war; however, the agreement never materialized.
In Doha, Hamas maintains an open office and the country has long served as a shelter for many of the group’s leaders. This strong rapport between Qatar and Hamas places the Gulf state in a privileged position as a mediator. For the United States and Israel, the presence of Hamas representatives and interlocutors in Doha remains a point of interest. Qatar’s leadership considers the Palestinian issue a central element of its foreign policy because that crisis generates substantial influence on the global stage, explains David Hernández, a doctor of International Relations and professor at the Complutense University of Madrid. The emirate is also known as a major financier of Islamist organizations, including the Muslim Brothers.
Criticism of Israel
Since the conflict began, Qatari diplomacy has positioned Israel as primarily responsible for the escalating tensions. Doha has highlighted ongoing violations of Palestinian rights in statements issued during October, while often omitting references to Hamas and calling for de-escalation. The tone has risen, with the Emirate describing Israeli actions as brutal massacres and horrific crimes against unarmed civilians, characterizing the bombings as a clear violation of international law.
Alongside its close ties with Hamas, Qatar maintains strong relations with Washington. The United States hosts the largest military base in the Middle East on Qatari soil. Although Doha does not recognize Israel, it maintains open lines of communication with Tel Aviv. During this phase of the Gaza conflict, Qatari diplomacy facilitated talks that paved the way for Hamas to release four hostages. It was also reported that Egypt considered opening the Rafah crossing to allow aid and the evacuation of the severely injured, along with others who were stranded in the Strip.
A diplomatic admirer
Over the years, Qatar has woven a broad network of international relationships with Iran, Russia, Türkiye, and China among others. The Qatari monarchy understands that it sits among powerful neighbors and enduring rivals in a volatile region. To endure, its foreign policy must remain agile and perceptive. As Hernández notes, the country lives in a complex regional landscape and must stay technically sharp to survive.
An international relations expert adds that Doha has become a habitual venue for negotiation, crisis management, and dialogue. He suggests that Qatar believes this approach will position it as a key player no one wants to challenge, because it is a place where important conversations can occur. Qatar, for its part, sees its role as a hub for diplomacy that can influence outcomes without becoming a target of coercion.
Qatar ranks among the world’s leading gas producers, especially in liquefied form. A portion of the gas consumed in Europe, including Spain, originates from this emirate. This natural resource has strengthened the country’s diplomacy and extended its influence beyond mediation. The 2022 FIFA World Cup is often cited as a notable example of Qatar leveraging soft power. The emirate also owns PSG, the French football club, and Bein Sports, a television platform with global sports rights. Another key asset is Al Jazeera, a major news channel that originated and operates from Qatar.