Geostrategic Media Political Commentary, Analysis, Security, Defense
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that further strikes on Hamas leaders are possible, coinciding with a summit of Arab and Islamic states in Qatar. This summit aimed to show support for Qatar following an Israeli attack on the Gulf state, which was a significant escalation in military actions after the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023. The emergency summit is expected to warn that Israeli actions endanger regional coexistence and normalization efforts.
During the summit, Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani condemned the Israeli strike as “cowardly and treacherous,” noting that Hamas leaders were considering a U. S. ceasefire proposal when the attack occurred. Hamas reported the deaths of five members due to the strike, while a member of Qatar’s internal security forces was also killed. The attack on Qatar has intensified tensions, especially between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, which normalized relations in 2020.
Netanyahu, alongside U. S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Jerusalem, mentioned that they were still assessing the strike’s results. Rubio plans to visit Qatar to encourage its role in resolving the Gaza conflict, which includes releasing hostages and disarming Hamas. U. S. President Donald Trump expressed concern about the attack and emphasized careful actions against Hamas while recognizing Qatar as a significant ally.
A draft resolution from the summit accused Israel of committing violent acts threatening peace and normalization efforts in the region. Israel faces accusations of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, linked to a prolonged military campaign that has resulted in significant casualties. However, Israel defends its actions as necessary for self-defense following the October 7 attacks.
Qatar, serving as a mediator in the conflict, criticized Israeli actions as detrimental to peace efforts. The Qatari Prime Minister reaffirmed their commitment to mediation despite Israel’s military strategies. Meanwhile, Israeli forces continued operations in Gaza City, resulting in additional Palestinian casualties. Rubio’s support for Israel comes amid growing global condemnation of the situation in Gaza and the resulting humanitarian crisis.
with information from Reuters
