The Gulf nation of Qatar has long served as a mediator, both in the Middle East and further afield. The country has good relations with nations that oppose each other, such as the United States and Iran, and therefore serves as a location where conversations can happen between adversaries.

The presence of many leaders from the Palestinian group Hamas in Doha has meant that the city has become a base for negotiations to end Israel’s war on Gaza and secure the release of Israeli captives held in the enclave.

But that looks like it is in jeopardy following Israel’s attack on several Hamas leaders in Doha on Tuesday.

Why are those leaders based in Qatar? And what is Qatar’s relationship with the Palestinian movement? Let’s take a closer look:

When did Hamas first open a political office

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