**Qatar Halts Mediation in Israel-Hamas Conflict**

Qatar has put a pause on its crucial mediation efforts between Hamas and Israel, as confirmed by officials on Saturday. Despite this suspension, Qatar may revive its role if both parties display a "serious political willingness" to reach a resolution on the Gaza conflict, stated an Egyptian official, another key mediator in the dispute.

A source familiar with the diplomatic developments revealed that Israel, Hamas, and the United States were promptly informed about Qatar's decision. The source also mentioned that, following this decision, the Hamas political office in Qatar is no longer effective in its mediation role. A senior Hamas official acknowledged Qatar's suspension of efforts but noted that they were not asked to leave the country.

The decision comes amid heightened tensions and a lack of progress toward a ceasefire agreement. A U.S. official disclosed that the Biden administration had advised Qatar two weeks ago that the ongoing operation of the Hamas office in Doha was ineffective and suggested the expulsion of the Hamas delegation. The U.S. highlighted that Hamas leaders, after rejecting multiple hostage release proposals, should no longer be accepted in the capitals of any American ally. This stance was communicated to Qatar following Hamas's refusal of a recent hostage release deal.

This announcement from Qatar follows increasing frustrations over the absence of advancement towards a ceasefire. The conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza and the concurrent Israel-Hezbollah war in Lebanon persists without a foreseeable end. Overnight, Israel's military targeted command centers and other structures in Beirut's southern suburbs.

In Gaza, Israeli airstrikes resulted in the deaths of at least 16 individuals, including women and children, on Saturday, according to Palestinian medical officials. Meanwhile, Israel reported the first shipment of humanitarian aid in weeks to the beleaguered and starving northern region of Gaza.