Ismail Haniyeh. Archive. (Photo: Abed Rahim Khatib/Flash90)
Hamas political leaders are reportedly planning for the option of leaving Qatar for Iraq to avoid pressure from the United States and Qatar to agree to a hostage deal, according to Emirati news outlet, the National.
According to the report, the Iraqi government gave its approval for such a move last month, and a number of Hamas offices have already been opened or will be opened in the country.
Iran will presumably be providing the Hamas leaders with protection and support in the country neighboring Iran.
Iraqi political groups are reportedly divided on whether they support hosting the leaders of the terrorist group.