Doha Slams Israeli PM Over Threats, Vows to Defend Sovereignty

Qatari Prime Minister Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani sharply criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in an exclusive interview with CNN on Wednesday, following Israel’s attempted assassination of Hamas leaders in Doha.

In an official statement, the State of Qatar strongly condemned Netanyahu’s “reckless” comments about Qatar’s hosting of a Hamas political office, rejecting his efforts to justify the recent attack on Qatari territory and his threats of further violations against the country’s sovereignty.

Qatar stressed that the Hamas office was established at the request of both the United States and Israel, as part of internationally recognized mediation efforts. The office has played a key role in facilitating prisoner exchanges and ceasefire agreements, easing humanitarian suffering in Gaza and securing the release of hostages.

“All negotiations were conducted transparently, with international backing and in the presence of U.S. and Israeli delegations,” the statement said. “Netanyahu’s claims that Qatar secretly sheltered Hamas leaders are a desperate attempt to justify an act condemned by the international community.”

Qatar also dismissed Netanyahu’s comparison between its mediation role and the U.S. pursuit of al-Qaeda after the September 11 attacks. “There was no internationally supported negotiation with al-Qaeda aimed at peace. Such comparisons are misleading and unfounded,” the statement added.

Doha further accused Netanyahu of relying on “extremist rhetoric to win elections” while facing growing international isolation, sanctions, and legal scrutiny. It noted that widespread expressions of solidarity with Qatar highlight the global rejection of threats against sovereign states.

Despite Netanyahu’s remarks, Qatar reaffirmed its role as an impartial mediator committed to regional security and stability. “The State of Qatar will continue to act as a trusted international partner and will take all necessary measures to defend its sovereignty and territory,” the statement declared.

The government also urged the international community to reject Netanyahu’s “inciteful rhetoric” and support efforts aimed at peace and stability. “Qatar’s commitment to international law and the United Nations Charter remains firm and unwavering,” it concluded.