Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sparked a diplomatic crisis Wednesday after threatening Qatar over its ties to Hamas, accusing the Gulf state of harboring the group's leaders and jeopardizing fragile peace negotiations. The remarks drew swift condemnation from Doha, which called Netanyahu's statements "reckless" and warned of repercussions for regional stability.
Netanyahu demanded Qatar expel Hamas officials or face consequences following an unprecedented Israeli operation on Qatari soil Tuesday. "Nations that host terrorists must choose: expel them or bring them to justice," he said, alleging Qatar provides Hamas with financial and logistical support.
Qatar's foreign ministry rejected the claims Thursday, emphasizing its Hamas office operates under a U.S.-backed mediation framework agreed to by Israel. "These threats violate state sovereignty and undermine years of progress," it stated, adding that Netanyahu's actions risk derailing ongoing ceasefire talks co-mediated with Egypt.
The dispute prompted Qatar to delay a UN Security Council meeting until Thursday, allowing its prime minister to personally address the tensions. Analysts warn the clash could complicate efforts to stabilize Gaza and rebuild international coalitions amid the conflict.
Qatar has served as a key intermediary in hostage negotiations and aid delivery since Hamas' October 2023 attack on Israel. The Gulf nation hosts Hamas' political bureau under arrangements previously acknowledged by multiple governments, including Israel.
