Hamas leadership may move to Iraq from Qatar

The National newspaper, based in the United Arab Emirates, reports that the Hamas leadership is planning to relocate from Qatar to Iraq. This move comes amid significant pressure from the United States on Qatar to compel Hamas to be more flexible in its negotiations with Israel.

Sources cited by the publication indicate that the Iraqi government agreed to host Hamas a month ago, pledging to provide security for its leadership, institutions, and personnel.

The report states that discussions about this relocation took place during meetings between Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and representatives of the Iraqi and Iranian governments. These details were confirmed by a member of the Iraqi parliament and the head of a political party closely aligned with Iran.

However, the decision to move Hamas to Baghdad has sparked controversy within Iraq. Leaders from Sunni and Kurdish communities are concerned that it could strain relations with the United States. Despite these reservations, sources assert that the decision is unlikely to be reversed.

The exact date of the relocation has not been set, but Hamas' political representation, led by Muhammad al-Hafi, has been active in Baghdad for several weeks. Additionally, plans are underway to establish a press office in the near future.

It's worth noting that media reports suggest Qatar has threatened to expel Hamas leadership if the group fails to make concessions in negotiations with Israel. The publication also suggests that Hamas militants are prepared for such a scenario, believing that exerting pressure on them in Iraq will be more challenging than in Qatar.