Qatar Hits Back at Israeli PM Netanyahu Over Hamas Office Remarks

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Doha, September 11, 2025: Qatar has strongly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over his recent comments regarding the Gulf country’s hosting of a Hamas political office. In a sharply worded statement, Qatar described Netanyahu’s remarks as “reckless” and accused him of attempting to distort the facts surrounding Doha’s role in regional diplomacy.

The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Netanyahu’s comments misrepresented Qatar’s position and responsibilities. Officials emphasized that the office in Doha had been established years ago to facilitate dialogue and humanitarian coordination, not to provide operational support. The ministry underlined that Qatar has consistently played a mediating role in regional conflicts, including efforts to achieve ceasefires between Israel and Palestinian groups.

Prime Minister Netanyahu had criticized Qatar over its ties with Hamas, arguing that Doha’s role undermines stability in the region. His comments came at a sensitive time, with heightened tensions across the Middle East. The Israeli leader has repeatedly called for international pressure on countries that maintain political links with the group.

Qatar reiterated that its foreign policy prioritizes dialogue and conflict resolution, often at the request of international partners. The government stressed that its mediation channels have been acknowledged by the United Nations, the United States, and other global actors. Doha accused Netanyahu of trying to shift attention from the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and from international calls for de-escalation.

Analysts note that Qatar’s sharp response highlights growing diplomatic friction between Israel and the Gulf state. Doha’s statement warned that irresponsible remarks risk inflaming tensions at a time when the region requires calm and constructive engagement.

The dispute adds a new layer to the already complex Middle East political landscape. Qatar maintains that its mediation role is internationally recognized, while Israel continues to oppose any official presence linked to Hamas outside the Palestinian territories. The exchange of words reflects the deep divisions over how the international community should handle the political representation of Palestinian factions.