Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani reiterated on Tuesday Qatar’s unwavering commitment to mediation between Israel and Hamas.
This declaration comes mere hours after Israeli forces launched airstrikes targeting Hamas leaders in Doha, an act the Prime Minister condemned as treacherous and a significant blow to peace efforts in Gaza. Speaking at a news conference, Al-Thani expressed grave concerns over the continuing violence, stating, “Qatar has spared no efforts and will do everything it can to stop this war in Gaza.”
However, he acknowledged a bleak outlook for current peace talks, suggesting that the recent violence has effectively undermined any chances for dialogue.Throughout the ongoing war in Gaza, Qatar has collaborated closely with Cairo and Washington to facilitate negotiations aimed at de-escalation. Yet, Al-Thani pointed a finger at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of engaging in what he termed “state terrorism” and suggesting that the Israeli attack had purposely sabotaged prospects for peace.Netanyahu, in his defence, argued that the airstrikes were justified due to an earlier attack in Jerusalem that resulted in the loss of four Israeli soldiers in Gaza.
His viewpoint reflects the complex layers of the ongoing conflict, where each side cites provocations as justification for retaliatory actions.In an alarming twist, Al-Thani revealed that Qatari officials were notified of the impending Israeli strikes by U.S. officials just ten minutes after the offensive had commenced, calling the attack “100% treacherous.”
He made it clear that Qatar reserves the right to respond, stating that a legal team has been assembled to address the ramifications of this aggressive act.The Prime Minister’s impassioned remarks underscore Qatar’s longstanding role as a mediator in one of the Middle East’s most intricate disputes.
As conflicts continue to plague the region, Qatar’s position may become even more critical in the coming days, especially as the international community watches closely for any potential escalation.