Qatar has reportedly pulled out as a key mediator in the Gaza ceasefire and prisoner negotiations, informing Hamas that its Doha office "no longer serves its purpose," AFP quoted a diplomatic source on Saturday.

 

AFP added that the source explained that Qatar had informed both 'Israel' and Hamas, as well as the United States, that it could no longer mediate as long as there was a refusal to negotiate in good faith.

 

- Hamas denies -

A Hamas official, however, stated that they had "not received any request" to leave Qatar.

 

The official, who requested anonymity, said, "We have nothing to confirm or deny regarding the unverified diplomatic source, and we have not received any request to leave Qatar," according to the agency.

 

Despite months of unsuccessful efforts with the United States and Egypt to broker a truce and secure prisoner release, Qatar conveyed to the US administration that it would be open to re-engaging in mediation if both sides showed a genuine willingness to return to negotiations.