Qatar Expels Hamas Leaders Amid U.S. Pressure

Qatar has agreed to expel Hamas leaders from Doha following a U.S. request amid stalled efforts to secure a ceasefire and hostage release in the Israel-Hamas conflict. This decision marks a significant policy shift for Qatar, which has hosted Hamas officials since 2012. The U.S., frustrated by Hamas's rejection of multiple ceasefire proposals and the execution of hostages, including an American-Israeli, pushed Qatar to act, viewing the group's presence as no longer viable. The expulsion aligns with broader U.S. efforts to isolate Hamas and comes after the unsealing of indictments against its leaders. Qatar's move is seen as an attempt to maintain its diplomatic balance as a Western ally while hosting diverse regional actors. The decision also coincides with increased regional tensions, including ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.