Israeli Strike in Lebanon ‘Justified’ Due to Qatari Funding of Hamas,Netanyahu Claims
BEIRUT/DOHA – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended a recent strike in Lebanon that killed a senior hamas operative,asserting the attack was “justified” due to Qatar‘s financial support of the militant group. The strike, carried out on Tuesday, resulted in the deaths of five Hamas members and one Qatari security official.While the intended high-ranking Hamas target survived, the incident has escalated tensions in the region and prompted a strong response from Qatar.
Qatar, which hosts leaders of Hamas’ Political Bureau and has played a key role in mediating ceasefires and hostage releases between Israel and Hamas – including the release of 251 hostages following the October 7, 2023 attacks – has no official diplomatic relations with Israel. Between 2018 and 2023, Qatar provided millions of dollars in cash and monthly assistance to Hamas-controlled Gaza, with the approval of Netanyahu’s own cabinet at the time. This financial link is now at the center of Netanyahu’s justification for the Lebanon strike, as qatar’s support enables Hamas’ operations.
The attack prompted Qatar to convene an emergency meeting of the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Monday, bringing together nearly 60 countries to condemn Israel and call for firm action.
The situation is further complex by allegations of potential Qatari influence within the Israeli government. earlier this year, Israeli media reported that two of Netanyahu’s aides where under inquiry by the Shin Bet internal security agency for allegedly receiving payments from Qatar - a scandal dubbed “Qatargate.” Netanyahu dismissed the investigation as a “political hunt” after being called to testify in March. The probe reportedly contributed to calls for the dismissal of Shin Bet head Ronen Bar and the firing of Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara.
(nvc/zap)