Strong Rebuke of Israeli Strike in Doha
DOHA: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned Israel’s recent strike in Qatar, calling it an act of “brazen aggression” and a “heinous violation” of international law. Speaking during his solidarity visit to Doha on Thursday, he warned that unchecked Israeli actions were destabilizing the Middle East and undermining diplomatic efforts for peace.
The prime minister’s visit came just days after Israel confirmed it carried out an airstrike in Doha on September 9, targeting Hamas leaders. While top Hamas officials reportedly survived, at least five of its members were killed along with a Qatari security officer.
Meeting With Qatari Emir
During his talks with Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, PM Shehbaz expressed deep sympathies for the victims and assured Pakistan’s complete solidarity with Qatar. He emphasized that Pakistan and Qatar have historically stood by one another, and pledged full support to Doha in the face of “unjustified provocations.”
The Qatari Emir, who has been a central figure in peace mediation efforts, thanked Pakistan for its unwavering stance. Both leaders stressed the urgent need for a united Muslim Ummah to confront regional challenges and protect the rights of Palestinians.
Calls for Global Action
At Qatar’s request, Pakistan has formally called for an emergency UN Security Council meeting, while also supporting Doha’s decision to convene an Extraordinary Arab-Islamic Summit on September 15 under the OIC framework. PM Shehbaz said Pakistan would co-sponsor the initiative and push for collective action against Israel’s “reckless aggression.”
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who were part of the high-level Pakistani delegation, echoed the condemnation. Dar called the strike “reprehensible” and underscored that it violated both Qatar’s sovereignty and global norms.
Regional and International Condemnations
Qatar has vowed to hold Israel accountable, with Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani declaring that the attack had “killed any hope” for the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. He urged that Prime Minister Netanyahu be “brought to justice.”
The strike has sparked widespread criticism:
- Saudi Arabia denounced it as “brutal aggression” and a threat to regional stability.
- Turkiye accused Israel of pursuing “expansionist politics” under the guise of counterterrorism.
- Iran warned the attack was “dangerous” and a breach of international law.
- Jordan and the UAE joined in condemning the strikes.
- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres labeled it a “flagrant violation of sovereignty,” calling for restraint and a lasting ceasefire.
- Even Pope Leo expressed concern, describing the developments as “very serious.”
The Stakes Ahead
Doha has long served as a hub for indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas, hosting the group’s political bureau since 2012. The latest strike not only threatens Qatar’s mediating role but also risks unraveling fragile ceasefire efforts in Gaza.
By aligning closely with Qatar, Pakistan has signaled its readiness to rally international pressure against Israel and strengthen Muslim solidarity in pursuit of peace and justice in the region.
