This is an entry from: Israel-Palestine war: First week ends with over 2,500 Palestinians, 1,400 Israelis killed
Hamas political office in Doha to remain open
13 October 2023 17:27 BST
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said “there will be no more business as usual with Hamas” when asked in Doha on Friday if they had asked Qatar to close the group’s office in the country.
Qatari Prime Minister Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani emphasised that the office was used to communicate with the group and bring "peace" and said it would continue to be used in that manner.
Blinken reiterated Israel’s right to defend itself, but said they have urged Israelis to take every precaution to avoid harm to civilians.
Blinken said the focus is to "create safe zones" in Gaza for civilians.