Gregory Meeks: “This amendment targets Qatar, the most important partner of the United States in freeing Americans and Israelis held…”

“This amendment targets Qatar, the most important partner of the United States in freeing Americans and Israelis held hostage by Hamas. Passage of this amendment and, in my opinion, this overall bill would jeopardize sensitive, ongoing diplomacy related to the hostage crisis in Gaza and further endanger Americans and Israelis in harm's way. Israel's National Security Adviser publicly praised Qatar's role as crucial to ongoing efforts to facilitate humanitarian solutions. Furthermore, it was reported in late October that Qatar's Emir told Secretary of State Blinken that his government was open to reconsidering the presence of Hamas in Qatar once the hostage crisis is resolved. I agree that Hamas' continued presence in Qatar and Turkiye is problematic. These terrorist leaders are living a life of luxury while their people suffer in Gaza. They should be held accountable, but this is not the way to go about it. Let's free our hostages. Then, we can talk and work with Qatar to hold Hamas' leadership in Doha accountable. This amendment is simply grandstanding and not the best way to deal with this issue, and certainly, it is being offered at the worst possible time. {time} 1400 Diplomacy is very important. If we challenge or damage these diplomatic channels, it further endangers Americans. We can't pass this legislation. We should not pass this legislation. I ask my colleagues to please join me in voting ``no'' on this amendment. We shouldn't even need the bill. Mr.…”