Qatar has stepped back from its role as a key mediator in the Gaza ceasefire and hostage negotiation efforts, citing a lack of good-faith negotiations from both Israel and Hamas.

This decision was confirmed by a diplomatic source who spoke to AFP. For months, Qatar had been involved alongside the United States and Egypt in negotiations aimed at achieving a truce and facilitating hostage exchanges.

Despite these efforts, a meaningful agreement has remained elusive.

In communicating its decision, Qatar informed Israel, Hamas, and the US administration that it would only consider re-engaging if the parties show a genuine intention to negotiate.

Qatar, known for hosting Hamas's political leadership since 2012, had been engaging with Washington's support.

The ongoing impasse follows intensified negotiations after Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel last year, which saw a limited pause in hostilities and hostage releases late in the year.

Recent attempts at reviving negotiations, including fresh talks announced by Washington and Doha, have similarly failed to yield results.

Qatar, home to a key US military base, indicated growing frustration, citing political exploitation and lack of genuine diplomatic effort.

In April, criticism from Israeli and US officials led Qatar to reassess its mediator role, temporarily relocating Hamas representatives to Turkey until prompted to return by the US and Israel.

Qatar's recent withdrawal highlights the ongoing challenges in achieving lasting peace in the region.