International

Qatar suspends role as mediator between Israel, Hamas

Published

3 days ago

November 10, 2024

Qatar suspends role as mediator between Israel, Hamas

Qatar has suspended its work as a mediator in ceasefire and hostage release talks between Israel and Hamas, officials say.

The country said it would resume its work when Hamas and Israel “show their willingness” to negotiate.

It comes after senior US officials reportedly said Washington would no longer accept the presence of Hamas representatives in Qatar, accusing the Palestinian group of rejecting fresh proposals for an end to the war in Gaza.

Qatar said initial reports it had withdrawn from mediation talks and said that Hamas’s political office in Doha “no longer serves its purpose” were “inaccurate”.

“Qatar notified the parties 10 days ago during the last attempts to reach an agreement, that it would stall its efforts to mediate between Hamas and Israel if an agreement was not reached in that round,” a statement from the Qatari foreign ministry said.

“Qatar will resume those efforts… when the parties show their willingness and seriousness to end the brutal war.”

Hamas has had a base in the Qatari capital since 2012, reportedly at the request of the Obama administration.

Several news agencies reported on Saturday that Qatar had agreed with the US to tell Hamas to close its political office in Doha due to “a refusal to negotiate a deal in good faith”.

But the foreign ministry said the reports were “inaccurate”. The claims have also been denied by Hamas officials.

The small but influential Gulf state is a key US ally in the region. It hosts a major American air base and has handled many delicate political negotiations, including with Iran, the Taliban and Russia.

Alongside the US and Egypt, the Qataris have also played a major role in rounds of so-far unsuccessful talks to broker a ceasefire in the year-long war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

But there is growing evidence of a shift in the relationship.

READ ALSO:

After the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, Hamas held a two-hour mourning tent in Doha in a small hall, a stark contrast to the recent three-day mourning held for Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, which was conducted with official state oversight and security.

The latest round of talks in mid-October failed to produce a deal, with Hamas rejecting a short-term ceasefire proposal. The group has always called for a complete end to the war and the full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.

The Qatari foreign ministry statement said: “Media reports regarding the Hamas office in Doha is inaccurate.”

“The main goal of the office in Qatar is to be a channel of communication… [which] has contributed to achieving a ceasefire in previous stages.”

Israel has also been accused of rejecting deals. Days after being fired earlier this week, former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of rejecting a peace deal against the advice of his security chiefs.

The call for Hamas to be expelled from Qatar appears to be an attempt by the outgoing Biden administration to force some sort of peace deal before the end of his term in January.

Were Hamas to be forced to leave Doha, it is unclear where they would base their political office. Key ally Iran would be an option, although the assassination of former leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in July suggests they may be at risk from Israel if based there. It would also not give them anything close to the same diplomatic channels to the West.

A more likely option would be Turkey. As a Nato member but also a Sunni majority state, it would give the group a base from which to operate in relative safety. Last April President Erdogan hosted then Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh and his delegation in Istanbul, where they talked about “what needs to be done to ensure adequate and uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, and a fair and lasting peace process in the region”.

The move would also most likely be welcomed by Ankara, which has often sought to position itself as a broker between east and west.

Key Hamas figures such as Osama Hamdan, Taher al-Nunu, and others frequently featured on news outlets have been staying in Istanbul for over a month.

Their extended presence in Turkey marks a departure from past visits, which were typically limited to brief stays.

It is thought the personal safety of Hamas leadership is now a major concern for the group, which saw two leaders killed in less than four months. As well as Haniyeh’s death in July, in October Israel killed Yahya Sinwar, the mastermind behind the 7 October Hamas attack on southern Israel.

According to the European Council of Foreign Relations, “Hamas has adopted a temporary model of collective leadership to mitigate the effect of future Israeli assassinations”.

H A Hellyer, a senior associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute (Rusi), told the BBC that nowhere “will give them protection from Israeli assassination attempts in the same way that being in Doha, where America has its largest military base in the region, did”.

The latest move comes as US officials appear increasingly frustrated with the approach the Israeli government has taken to ending the war. In October, the US Secretaries of State and Defense said if Israel did not allow more humanitarian aid into the territory by 12 November, they would face unspecified policy “implications”.

Last weekend a number of UN officials warned the situation in northern Gaza was “apocalyptic”. On Saturday the independent Famine Review Committee said there was a “strong likelihood that famine is imminent in areas”.

The relationship between President Joe Biden and Netanyahu has deteriorated over the course of the war in Gaza, with increasing pressure from Washington to improve the humanitarian situation for the Palestinians and find some sort of negotiated settlement.

But, according to Dr Hellyer, US attempts at negotiation have been fatally flawed.

“By setting red lines and allowing Netanyahu to cross them without consequence, the Biden administration effectively encouraged further impunity. I don’t think any of this will change in the next 10 weeks,” he said.

Any overtures have been repeatedly rejected by Netanyahu and his right-wing coalition, who will now also feel emboldened by the prospect of an incoming Donald Trump presidency.

While exactly what approach Trump will take to the region remains uncertain, he is thought to be more likely to allow Israel to act on its terms.

He has previously said Israel should “finish what they started” in Gaza. During his last term in the White House, he took a number of steps deemed highly favourable to Israel, including moving the US embassy to Jerusalem.

It has also been reported, however, that Trump has told Netanyahu that he wants to see an end to the fighting by the time he takes office.

Either way, it seems likely that the current US administration will have less influence over the government in Jerusalem.

They may therefore believe the best way to force some sort of deal is to apply pressure on Hamas. Whether it pays off may depend on whether Qatar, so long a reliable ally, decides to go along with it.

Qatar suspends role as mediator between Israel, Hamas

BBC

Related Topics:Hamas Israel mediator Qatar

Up Next

Biden, Trump set for rare direct encounter at White House this week

Don't Miss

Russia casualties hit 700,000 in war against Ukraine

International

COP29: Islamic bank supports WHO Impact Investment with $10m

Published

9 hours ago

November 12, 2024

Trends Admin

COP29: Islamic bank supports WHO Impact Investment with $10m

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has committed a $10 million grant to the World Health Organization (WHO) to support the Health Impact Investment Platform (HIIP), bolstering its mission to strengthen primary healthcare systems worldwide.

Announced on November 12, 2024, during the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, the grant highlights IsDB’s dedication to enhancing health resilience and climate adaptation in low- and middle-income countries.

In a statement on Tuesday, IsDB described HIIP as a groundbreaking partnership among Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), WHO and nations seeking robust health and climate solutions.

“This initiative focuses on the investment in essential, climate and crisis-resilient primary health care services and systems,” the bank stated, emphasizing the aim to reinforce the health system, especially in low- and middle-income countries and in underserved communities, ultimately aiming to foster resilience against emerging health threats and climate challenges.

Fifteen countries are identified as part of phase one of the Health Impact Investment Platform: Burundi, Central African Republic, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia Guinea Bissau .

Other countries included Jordan, Maldives Morocco, Senegal, South Sudan, The Gambia, Tunisia and Zambia.

Supporting WHO’s technical assistance goals

The $10 million grant will specifically support the technical assistance that WHO provides to countries around the world to assess investment needs and to design the most impactful health projects.

READ ALSO:

“These projects will serve as the foundation for co-investment by the MDBs, ensuring that resources are directed toward areas with the greatest potential for positive health outcomes,”IsDB added.

Over the next four years, WHO aims to strengthen climate resilience as part of its Fourteenth General Programme of Work, which includes implementing national climate adaptation plans and making 10,000 health facilities fully operational, including solar-powered electrification.

Unlocking $500m in health investments across the region

In addition to the $10 million grant, IsDB’s contribution is projected to unlock at least $500 million in health investments across the region.

“This collective goal is part of a broader effort to mobilize a total of US$ 1.5 billion in concessional loans and grants, focusing on critical areas, this way addressing national health priorities.”

Advancing health resilience, leadership statements

IsDB President Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser said, the Islamic Development Bank is proud to support the Health Impact Investment Platform as part of our unwavering commitment to advancing universal health coverage and resilience in our Member Countries.

“These Multilateral Development Banks and WHO partnerships enable us to scale up primary health care where it is needed most, creating a stronger foundation to withstand future crises and addressing the pressing health challenges of today.”

“Together, we are fostering a healthier, more equitable future for communities across the globe,” he said.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that low- and middle-income countries need access to sustainable financing to strengthen their health systems through primary health care, to make them both more resilient to pandemics and more equitable in delivering essential health services.

“The Health Impact Investment Platform combines WHO’s public health expertise and on-the-ground presence with the resources and financing expertise of the Islamic Development Bank and other multilateral development banks. By working together, we can make a significant difference in improving health outcomes and creating a healthier future for all.”

The IsDB, along with its partners, remains committed to fostering partnerships that will advance healthcare and improve quality of life globally.

COP29: Islamic bank supports WHO Impact Investment with $10m

International

UK announces 45,000 seasonal worker visas for 2025

Published

9 hours ago

November 12, 2024

Trends Admin

UK announces 45,000 seasonal worker visas for 2025

The UK government has announced plans to issue 45,000 seasonal worker visas in 2025.

This initiative aims to support the nation’s food production by ensuring sufficient workforce availability during peak demand periods hereby addressing labour shortages in its agricultural and poultry sectors,

The seasonal worker visa scheme is intended to provide a temporary labour force for essential roles in food production.

Additionally, 2,000 visas will be granted to poultry workers for processing tasks between October and December.

This allocation, reports inform, is part of a broader strategy to provide businesses with the workforce needed during peak seasons.

Eligibility criteria for seasonal worker visa applicants

Applicants for the Seasonal Worker visa must meet specific eligibility requirements. They must be; at least 18 years old, have a valid sponsorship from a licensed UK employer and meet the necessary health and safety standards for the job.

READ ALSO:

Applicants must also provide evidence of sufficient funds for their stay and have valid health insurance coverage. Importantly, visa holders are required to leave the UK when their employment period ends and cannot change their visa type while in the country.

Available roles and how to apply

The Seasonal Worker visa applies to a variety of roles within the horticulture and poultry sectors. In horticulture, workers may be tasked with duties such as planting, pruning, weeding, harvesting, and packing produce.

Poultry workers will typically be involved in tasks like feeding and caring for the birds, egg collection, processing, and other related duties.

To apply, candidates must secure a sponsorship certificate from a licensed UK employer.

Once sponsored, applicants can submit their visa application through the UK government’s online immigration portal.

Applications for poultry roles must be submitted by November 15 each year, while horticulture roles have year-round application windows.

UK announces 45,000 seasonal worker visas for 2025

International

Belgium University offers scholarship up to €12,000 for Master’s students

Published

18 hours ago

November 12, 2024

Trends Admin

Belgium University offers scholarship up to €12,000 for Master’s students

The Science@Leuven Scholarship provides an opportunity for outstanding international students to pursue a Master’s degree at Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (KU Leuven) in Belgium.

The scholarship is available for various science-related programs and aims to support students who demonstrate strong academic performance and motivation to succeed in their studies.

According to the institution, the Science@Leuven Scholarship for 2025 is now open for applications, offering financial assistance to deserving students pursuing a Master’s degree in the Faculty of Science at KU Leuven. The scholarship can provide up to 12,000 Euros for one year, covering tuition fees, health insurance, and living expenses.

Eligible master’s programs

The Science@Leuven Scholarship is available for a selection of Master’s programs at KU Leuven. These include: Master of Astronomy and Astrophysics

Master of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology
Master of Biology
Master of Chemistry
Master of Geography
Interuniversity Master of Geology (specific specializations only)
Master of Mathematics
Master of Physics
Master of Statistics and Data Science
Master of Sustainable Development (ICP)

Applicants who are interested in other programs outside this list will not be considered for the scholarship. The scholarship is specifically designed for students applying to these specific Master’s programs in science.

READ ALSO:

Eligibility criteria for applicants

To be eligible for the Science@Leuven Scholarship, applicants must meet several key criteria:

Bachelor’s degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a non-Belgian university that qualifies them for the master’s program they are applying for.
Academic performance: Applicants must have demonstrated excellent academic results in their previous studies and must be capable of maintaining a high level of performance during their time at KU Leuven.
Language proficiency: Strong English language skills are required, with minimum TOEFL scores of 94 (internet-based) or IELTS scores of 7.0 overall. Specific score requirements for reading, listening, speaking, and writing also apply.
References: Applicants must submit two reference letters from internationally recognized professors.
Motivation: Applicants should demonstrate strong motivation to study at KU Leuven’s Faculty of Science and have a clear vision for their academic future.

Applicants who meet these criteria can apply directly through the KU Leuven application portal.

Scholarship benefits and coverage

The Science@Leuven Scholarship covers various expenses for eligible students. The award amount can be up to 12,000 Euros for one year. This sum includes:

Tuition fees: The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition for one year.
Health insurance: Basic health insurance coverage is provided for the duration of the program.
Living expenses: A portion of the scholarship is also allocated for living expenses, though the exact amount may vary.

The scholarship is renewable for the second year of a two-year Master’s program, provided the student achieves outstanding results in their first year.

Required documents for Application

Applicants interested in the Science@Leuven Scholarship must submit several important documents as part of the application process:

Transcript of Records: A complete list of courses, including ECTS credits and grades, along with a description of relevant courses taken.
Letter of Motivation: A short letter explaining why the applicant is motivated to study the chosen program at KU Leuven.
Reference letters: Two reference letters from internationally recognized professors who can speak to the applicant’s academic potential.

These documents must be uploaded through the KU Leuven application portal. Applicants must also ensure they submit proof of their completed application via a screenshot, which is required for the scholarship registration.

How to apply

The application process for the Science@Leuven Scholarship involves two main steps:

1. Apply for the Master’s Program: First, applicants must apply for their chosen Master’s program via the KU Leuven application tool. Instructions for applying can be found on the KU Leuven website.

2. Apply for the Scholarship: After completing the application for the Master’s program, applicants must register separately for the Science@Leuven Scholarship. Registration is confirmed once applicants receive an email notification. Applicants must upload proof of their program application (a screenshot) to complete the scholarship registration.

Deadline for applications

The deadline for submitting applications for the Science@Leuven Scholarship is February 15, 2025. Interested candidates should ensure they complete both the Master’s program and scholarship applications by this date.

For further details, including full application guidelines, visit the KU Leuven website or contact the university’s admissions link