Qatar expressed its dismay on Wednesday over leaked remarks made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in which he criticized the country’s mediation efforts with Hamas. The remarks further complicated the already arduous negotiations aimed at halting the hostilities and securing the release of hostages. Netanyahu referred to Qatar’s role in the mediation as “problematic”, which provoked a backlash from the Gulf state. Qatar, known for its deep ties to Hamas and its hosting of exiled leaders, denounced Netanyahu’s comments as irresponsible and destructive.
The public spat between Qatar and Israel came as talks were underway to advance a potential agreement that could provide some respite in the 3-month-old war. The leaked remarks were broadcasted on Israeli Channel 12 television, where Netanyahu was seen meeting with families of hostages held by Hamas. In addition to criticizing Qatar’s role, Netanyahu intentionally refrained from thanking the country for its mediation efforts, claiming it could exert additional pressure on the Islamic militant group.
Netanyahu went on to compare Qatar to the UN and the Red Cross, stating that Qatar was, in essence, no different and even more problematic. Israel has long viewed these organizations with suspicion, perceiving them as biased against it. The Israeli PM also expressed his anger towards the US for renewing a military base in Qatar, emphasizing that he had urged the US to exert pressure on Qatar as a means of pressuring Hamas.
In response to the leaked remarks, Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Majed al-Ansari, expressed his government’s appallment over Netanyahu’s reported comments. Al-Ansari argued that if the remarks were true, Netanyahu would be obstructing and undermining the mediation process, prioritizing his political career over saving innocent lives.
The leaked remarks and the subsequent public spat have complicated the ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas. The role of mediators like Qatar is crucial in reaching a potential agreement that could bring an end to the hostilities and secure the release of hostages.
