Netanyahu Appeals to Qatar for Hamas Leader Release Amidst Regional Tensions
Doha, Qatar – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly appealed to Qatar for the release of Hamas leaders believed to be operating within the country, following an Israeli strike in Doha that targeted a building where Hamas officials where discussing a proposed American truce. The appeal comes as regional tensions escalate and Qatar sharply condemns Israel’s actions.
The Israeli raid, which occurred on Tuesday, resulted in the deaths of five individuals, according to Hamas and media reports. However, Israeli officials, as cited in the media on Thursday, acknowledged the attack likely did not achieve it’s intended outcome of eliminating Hamas leadership.
Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman As-Sani responded with strong criticism, labeling the Israeli attack a “gross violation of international principles and law” and a “breakthrough moment for the Middle East.” He further accused Israel of seeking “chaos” in the region and announced plans to convene a regional summit to assess the situation,including Qatar’s role as a mediator in Gaza truce negotiations.
While qatar does not maintain formal diplomatic relations with Israel, it holds a significant regional position, bolstered by its close alliance with the United States. Hamas has stated the Israeli attack specifically targeted a building where its leaders were deliberating over the latest American truce proposal.
Fighting continues in the Gaza Strip, with Israeli forces pressing their offensive on Gaza City. Medical sources cited by Reuters report at least 30 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks on Thursday.