Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu issues apology to Qatar regarding recent attack in Doha.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally expressed regret to Qatar following a recent Israeli attack that unintentionally resulted in the death of a Qatari citizen, a development that prompted widespread global disapproval. The incident occurred during an Israeli operation targeting Hamas leaders in Doha, which has drawn attention to the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics.
On Monday, Netanyahu’s apology was conveyed during a joint call with United States President Joe Biden to Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani at the White House. The apology was characterized by the White House as a vital step in easing tensions and reaffirming Qatar’s crucial role in regional diplomacy.
The attack, which occurred on September 9, resulted in the deaths of five lower-ranking Hamas members and a Qatari security official while targeting senior Hamas figures engaged in negotiations for a US-backed ceasefire. While those negotiations continue, Qatar’s unique position as a key mediator in these discussions has emphasized the significance of diplomatic relations.
In a statement from the White House, it was highlighted that Netanyahu expressed deep regret for the unintended consequences of the missile strike against Hamas targets in Qatar. He acknowledged that the operation had led to a breach of Qatari sovereignty and assured Prime Minister Al Thani that such an incident would not occur again in the future.
The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the call and expressed gratitude for the U.S. commitment to fostering peace in the region, including assurances to prevent future transgressions against Qatari territory. Notably, the diplomatic effort comes at a time when nearly 60 Muslim nations gathered in Doha in solidarity, further emphasizing Qatar’s pivotal role in promoting regional unity.
Netanyahu also conveyed his condolences regarding the loss of Qatari citizen Badr Al-Dosari, pledging that Israel would refrain from future targeting of Qatari soil. The incident has underscored the delicate nature of international relations in the region, particularly as Qatar balances its role as a mediating power amidst ongoing conflicts.
In response to the apology, Sultan Barakat, a professor at Hamad Bin Khalifa University in Qatar, stated that Netanyahu’s acknowledgment was crucial for ongoing mediation efforts, not just between Hamas and Israel but for broader diplomatic endeavors. He emphasized that mediation can only thrive when parties to conflict respect each other’s sovereignty and engage in a constructive dialogue.
This recent diplomatic interaction signals a potential new phase in the complex relationship between Israel and Qatar, with emphasis on maintaining regional stability and security.
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