Qatar has suspended its mediation efforts between Hamas and Israel due to a lack of progress on a Gaza ceasefire deal. The Qatari foreign ministry denied withdrawing from the process but stated they would resume when the parties show a willingness to end the war. They emphasised not being blackmailed and rejected using negotiations as an excuse to continue the war. Reports of Qatar asking Hamas to close its Doha office were refuted. Al Jazeera's senior political analyst, Marwan Bishara, suggests Qatar's suspension of mediation efforts stems from frustration with repeated negotiation failures. He posits that some parties, notably the Israelis, have been using the diplomatic process as a cover to continue the war. Bishara expresses uncertainty about future negotiations, particularly regarding President-elect Trump's stance on Israel winding down the war. He speculates on whether Trump's comments imply an immediate cessation of hostilities or a continuation of destruction in Gaza. Addressing reports of Qatar planning to expel Hamas officials from Doha, Bishara dismisses these as disinformation, emphasising the practical importance of Hamas's presence for facilitating quick negotiations. He notes that when parties are serious, having Hamas in Doha is beneficial for reaching agreements, citing the success of a previous hostage exchange deal.