Qatar’s Prime Minister has strongly criticized Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza, saying it has severely harmed any hope for peace in the region.
Speaking at the Qatar Economic Forum on Tuesday, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani said hopes had been raised following the recent release of Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander. However, he expressed disappointment at Israel’s subsequent intensification of its military strikes.
“When Aidan Alexander was released, we believed that could have marked a turning point toward ending the conflict,” the prime minister said. “Instead, it triggered a more violent wave of attacks. This irresponsible aggression completely undermines any real opportunity for peace.”
His remarks came a day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to seize full control of Gaza, as Israel escalated its military operations in the battered territory.
Qatar, alongside Egypt and the United States, has played a central role in mediation efforts since the outbreak of the conflict.
Reflecting on recent negotiations in Doha, Sheikh Mohammed revealed that talks remain at a stalemate due to stark differences between the warring sides.
“There’s a fundamental gap,” he explained. “One side wants a step-by-step deal leading to a broader resolution. The other seeks a one-time agreement to end the war and release all hostages. This disconnect has blocked progress.”
AFP
