US warns against hosting Hamas leaders, calls out Turkey

Washington: The United States issued a stern warning on Monday to countries providing refuge to Hamas leaders, with Turkey specifically singled out following reports of possible relocations by the Palestinian group’s leadership.

During a press briefing, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller responded to reports that Hamas leaders previously based in Doha, Qatar, may have moved to Turkey. While Miller did not confirm the reports, he stated, “I’m not in a position to dispute them.”

Miller underscored the US stance, emphasising, “We will make clear to the government of Turkey, as we have made clear to every country in the world, that there can be no more business as usual with Hamas.”

The spokesman reiterated that Hamas is considered a terrorist organisation by the United States, stating, “We don’t believe the leaders of a vicious terrorist organisation should be living comfortably anywhere.” He added that some Hamas members have been indicted in the US and should be extradited.

The warning reflects Washington’s broader push to isolate Hamas internationally and pressure countries to deny sanctuary to its leadership, particularly in the wake of heightened tensions in the Middle East.