The group has warned that such a move could complicate ceasefire talks, especially after Qatar announced it was freezing its involvement in mediating a hostage deal between Israel and Hamas. Hamas officials argue that forcing the group’s leadership out of Qatar would not align with U.S. or Israeli interests, as it could create further obstacles in negotiations.
Since leaving Syria in 2011, Hamas has been based in Qatar under agreements with Doha, Israel, and the US Should they be forced to leave, Hamas has backup plans to relocate to places like Turkey, Iran, or Lebanon.
Turkey, in particular, is seen as a viable option due to strong ties with Hamas and the significant public support the group enjoys there, along with Turkish aid to Gaza. Moving to Iran is also a possibility, though it could shift the group toward its more militant factions, potentially hindering any progress on negotiations.
The key Hamas leaders currently based in Qatar who may be exported: (according to ynet reports)
Khaled Mashal - The group's envoy abroad, Mashal is one of the most prominent Hamas leaders. Living in Qatar for over a decade, Mashal has amassed an estimated wealth of $2-5 billion and faced criticism for urging Gazans to stand firm while he lived in luxury. US lawmakers have called for his extradition and for the freezing of Hamas assets in Qatar.
Khalil al-Hayya – Serving as Hamas’ envoy to Gaza, al-Hayya played a central role in the October 7 massacre and has close ties to Iran. He was one of the architects of the attack and moved to Qatar shortly before it occurred. Al-Hayya is considered a key player in Hamas’ leadership.
Zaher Jabarin – Jabarin is the group's financial strategist and has a significant role in Hamas' operations in the West Bank. His precise role in Qatar remains unclear, but he has long been involved in the organization’s financial dealings.
Ghazi Hamad – A senior member of Hamas’ politburo, Hamad left Gaza in August 2023. Known for his pragmatism, he played a key role in the 2011 deal to release Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit. Hamad is seen as one of the more moderate voices within Hamas.
Mousa Abu Marzouk – Former deputy head of the Hamas politburo, Abu Marzouk has spent years in Qatar after being deported from the US in the 1990s. With an estimated wealth of $2-3 billion, he remains one of the most influential leaders in the group.
Hamas sources indicate that these leaders are likely to relocate to one of several alternative bases if forced out of Qatar. However, such a move could shift the group's focus and potentially derail ongoing negotiations with Israel.
