WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, along with Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) issued a statement on bilateral relations between the United States and Qatar, and efforts to mediate the release of all hostages taken by Hamas:
“The United States and Qatar have enjoyed close relations and cooperation on economic and security issues for more than 50 years. This has been acutely important in the aftermath of the horrific events of October 7th and Hamas’ ongoing holding of more than 134 hostages, including at least 8 Americans.
“We appreciate the work Qatar has undertaken so far to mediate the release of hostages and urge Qatar to redouble its efforts and use all its leverage to secure the immediate release of all those taken by Hamas in its heinous October 7 attack.
“If Hamas refuses reasonable negotiations, there is no reason for Qatar to continue hosting Hamas’ political office or any of its members in Doha. It is incumbent upon like-minded nations to work together to deny terrorist organizations, like Hamas, the financial support or safe havens that allow them to metastasize or seek legitimacy.
“Qatar is a vital U.S. partner in maintaining peace and stability in the Middle East, and we look forward to 50 more years of even stronger partnership.”
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