"The arsonist and firefighter of the Middle East": How Qatar became a lever of influence in Gaza

Qatar is working to preserve its status and influence in the Gaza Strip through mediation, humanitarian aid, and ties in Washington, while trying to please all sides. The article analyzes Doha's policy as "arsonist and firefighter" — creating problems and presenting itself as a mediator. Qatar promises Israel assistance regarding the hostages, the US calm, and Hamas concessions in negotiations. Humanitarian aid serves as a tool to strengthen hostile elements, while Doha seeks additional mechanisms such as FIFA programs and the "Education Above All" fund to remain dominant in Gaza's reconstruction.

Qatar is working to preserve its status and influence in the Gaza Strip through mediation, humanitarian aid, and ties in Washington, while trying to please all sides. The article analyzes Doha's policy as "arsonist and firefighter" — creating problems and presenting itself as a mediator. Qatar promises Israel assistance regarding the hostages, the US calm, and Hamas concessions in negotiations. Humanitarian aid serves as a tool to strengthen hostile elements, while Doha seeks additional mechanisms such as FIFA programs and the "Education Above All" fund to remain dominant in Gaza's reconstruction. The author is a Qatar researcher at Ariel University and the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security.

"The arsonist and firefighter of the Middle East": How Qatar became a lever of influence in Gaza