Qatar Sanctions Hamas Chiefs as War Rages On

Qatar has recently taken measures against several Hamas figures, according to a report in the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, citing sources within the group.

Hamas officials said the steps were directed at prominent members who had expressed support for Iran’s attacks during the ongoing regional conflict. The report did not specify what actions Qatar took or which individuals were targeted.

The move comes as Qatar itself has been directly affected by Iranian strikes, with attacks reported on infrastructure in the Gulf state since the war began.

In parallel, senior Hamas sources indicated that the organization is moving toward delaying internal elections for the head of its political bureau. The decision is attributed to shifting regional dynamics and ongoing security complications.

According to the report, the leadership contest had narrowed primarily to two figures: Khaled Mashaal, based abroad, and Khalil al-Hayya, a senior leader in Gaza involved in ceasefire negotiations.

Sources within Hamas said there is growing consensus to postpone the vote, with some indicating elections for the broader leadership may instead be held later in the year. Others described the delay as temporary, noting that much of the electoral process has already been completed.

The reported Qatari measures and the potential delay in Hamas leadership elections reflect broader regional pressures on the group as the conflict with Iran continues to reshape alliances and political calculations.