Reuters reported, citing a source it described as knowledgeable, on Saturday, that Qatar will cease its mediation role in the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement between Israel and "Hamas".

The official clarified that it will stop until "Hamas and Israel demonstrate a genuine willingness to return to the negotiating table," adding that Qatar also concluded that the political office of Hamas in Doha "no longer serves its purpose".

This step represents the largest setback in efforts to achieve a ceasefire since the start of the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023.

According to the official, "the Qataris have said since the beginning of the conflict that they can only mediate when both parties show a real interest in finding a solution," adding that Qatar has informed "Hamas," Israel, and the U.S. administration of its decision.

Earlier today, a responsible source in "Hamas" confirmed that the movement did not receive a request from Qatar to leave Doha, contrary to multiple reports about this, but added that the movement was informed of the existence of an American request only.

The source stated, "The movement was informed of the existence of an American request and increasing pressure regarding its exit from Qatar, but the Qatari government did not ask anything from the leaders of the movement."

The source added: "This has happened several times (in the past), and it seems to be a kind of American pressure to force the movement to make concessions in the stalled ceasefire negotiations in Gaza."

Israeli and American media, as well as global news agencies, reported that Qatar informed "Hamas" leaders that they are no longer welcome.

The official Israeli broadcasting corporation (Kan) stated that Palestinian leaders were informed of this decision "in recent days."

The "Times of Israel" also confirmed the American request, quoting senior officials in the Biden administration that Qatar informed "Hamas" that it must close its office in Doha.