One Killed in Israeli Strike on South Lebanon

Hamas has significantly increased its presence and operational activities in Türkiye over recent months, marking a notable shift from its previous distanced approach. This move involves relocating key organizational functions and meetings to the country, a change that has coincided with the group's efforts to engage with Syria's new government.

The growing reliance on Türkiye is underscored by Hamas choosing it as the venue for internal elections to select its political bureau chief in May. This decision followed years where such meetings were primarily held in Doha, Qatar. The shift also occurs against a backdrop of Turkish security agencies dismantling alleged Israeli Mossad espionage networks that reportedly tracked Hamas members within Türkiye.

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This does not amount to a dispute with Qatar; rather, it came to ease the burden on Qatar in the face of US pressure, driven by Israel, demanding the expulsion of the movement’s leaders.

Senior Hamas sources indicate that the majority of the group's leaders are now based in Türkiye for extended periods. All significant meetings, including those concerning ceasefire discussions and internal affairs, are reportedly taking place there. This concentration of activity in Türkiye appears to be a strategic move to alleviate pressure on Qatar, which has faced U.S. demands, driven by Israel, to expel Hamas leaders.

Despite the shift, Hamas leaders maintain strong relationships with Qatari officials, who continue to host the movement. The move is framed not as a dispute with Qatar, but as a measure to ease the burden on Doha. Sources suggest that Türkiye is now perceived as a safer destination for these activities, even as Israel has previously targeted Hamas meetings in Doha, resulting in fatalities.

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The Hamas leadership still maintains a solid and strong relationship with Qatari officials, who continue to welcome the movement’s leadership.