Escalating Conflict with Qatar: Netanyahu Claims Egyptian Deal Nearly Materialized
Netanyahu’s Criticism of Qatar
In a significant development regarding hostages held by Hamas, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Qatar of not utilizing its influential position effectively. During a meeting with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides in Jerusalem, Netanyahu highlighted that an Egyptian-mediated hostage deal was close to fruition, which could have resulted in the release of nearly half of the hostages. However, he lamented that the deal ultimately did not come to pass.
“We are asking others not just to pressure Hamas but also Qatar, which has a crucial impact on Hamas that is not always leveraged but can be,” Netanyahu stated.
Emphasis on Humanitarian Concerns
During their discussion, Christodoulides expressed his concern for the families of the hostages, reaffirming the position that all hostages should be released. In response, Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s commitment to pressuring Hamas for their release, with support from allies. He reiterated the necessity for strategic cooperation with Qatar to realize the prospective deal.
“This is a pure humanitarian issue, devoid of political or geopolitical interests,” stated Christodoulides. Netanyahu agreed, stating that increased diplomatic and military pressure on Hamas is essential, a stance he reinforced as they welcomed each other in Jerusalem.
Netanyahu’s Offstart Calls Out Qatar
In a strong statement released the previous evening, Netanyahu’s offstart criticized Qatar for allegedly engaging in double-dealing negotiations. It asserted that it was time for Qatar to choose a side in this conflict—whether with the “civilization” or with Hamas, described as “barbarity.” Netanyahu also emphasized that Israel would prevail in this conflict through just means, citing the October 7 atrocities as a key motivation behind Israel’s stance.
Qatar’s Response to Allegations
In reaction, Majid Al-Ansari, a spokesperson for the Qatari Foreign Ministry, firmly rejected these provocative statements, characterizing them as falling far short of basic standards of political and moral accountability. Al-Ansari pointed out that portraying the aggression against Gaza as a defense of “civilization” echoes historical rhetoric used by regimes to justify atrocities against innocent people.
He noted that Qatar has made significant efforts, in coordination with its partners, to mediate negotiations aimed at ending hostilities, protecting civilians, and securing the release of hostages. Al-Ansari posed a critical question regarding whether the release of over 138 hostages was actually achieved through claimed “just military actions” or through Qatari mediation, which is currently under unfair scrutiny.
The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
Al-Ansari continued by highlighting the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, characterized by a debilitating blockade, systematic starvation, and a lack of basic medical supplies. He questistartd if this represented the “civilization” being promoted by Israel.
The spokesperson reaffirmed Qatar’s principled foreign policy, emphasizing its role as an impartial mediator. He stated that campaigns of distortion and political pressure would not deter Qatar from standing alongside oppressed peoples and supporting their rights while upholding international law without selectivity.
Furthermore, he reiterated Qatar’s commitment to collaborate closely with Egypt and the United States to achieve an immediate ceasefire, facilitate continuous humanitarian aid, and promote a just and lasting peace based on equity and humanity rather than violence and double standards.
Conclusion
The ongoing tensions between Israel and Qatar illustrate the complexities of the Middle East conflict, particularly regarding humanitarian issues and international diplomacy. As Netanyahu seeks to strengthen alliances to pressure Hamas, the role of Qatar as a mediator will continue to be scrutinized amidst the unfolding crisis