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Qatar Seeks Arab-Islamic Support After Israeli Attack
Qatar has called on Arab and Islamic nations to support it following last week’s Israeli strike on the country, describing the attack as a breach of its sovereignty.
Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said the measures taken by Doha to protect its nation have received backing from regional and international allies.
Speaking ahead of an emergency Arab-Islamic summit in Doha, Sheikh Mohammed condemned Israel’s “barbaric” attack, which killed six people, including a Qatari security officer. He stressed that the assault narrowly missed negotiators weighing a U.S. proposal to end Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza.
“The solidarity shown by brotherly Arab and Islamic nations, as well as international partners, is deeply appreciated,” the prime minister said. “These countries support the legitimate steps Qatar will take to defend its sovereignty.”
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The summit, attended by foreign ministers from the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), aims to draft a resolution demanding accountability for Israel’s actions and to push for a two-state solution in Palestine. OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha emphasized the need for firm measures to end violations against Palestinians.
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit urged that Israel be held accountable for what he described as “evidenced war crimes,” including killing civilians and displacing populations. Regional leaders are expected to issue a strong statement against Israel’s aggression during the summit on Monday.
While the attack is unlikely to affect Qatar’s longstanding strategic ties with the United States, analysts say the summit may also revive efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in Gaza.
Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka, editor of the Gulf Times, described the meeting as a rare show of regional unity and a potential turning point in the response to Israel’s actions.
