"I think with his actions on 9/9, Mr. Netanyahu extinguished any hope of rescuing the hostages," Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani told CNN on 10/9, referring to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The interview took place one day after Israel struck Hamas locations in Doha, Qatar, where the group’s political wing has offices, causing explosions. The move was unexpected, as Qatar, a U.S. ally, has been a key mediator in peace talks between Hamas and Israel.
"I have no words to express Qatar's outrage. We feel betrayed," Al-Thani continued, adding that Doha "is reassessing everything" regarding its involvement in future peace efforts and discussing next steps with Washington.
The Qatari prime minister accused Israel of plunging the Middle East into chaos and wasting Qatar's time. He referenced accusations by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Israeli leaders and stated that "Mr. Netanyahu must be brought to justice."
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Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani speaks in Doha on 9/9. Photo: AFP |
Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani speaks in Doha on 9/9. Photo: AFP
Prime Minister Netanyahu on 10/9 rejected criticism from the international community, arguing that Israel's actions were similar to those of the U.S. after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. He called on Qatar to expel members of Hamas’ political wing or bring them to justice.
"If you don't, we will act," the Israeli leader warned.
Hamas said on 9/9 that six members of its armed wing were killed, but its senior leadership survived. Hamas has had a political office in Doha since 2012, with Washington’s consent.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump said he tried to prevent Israel from striking Qatar, but admitted his efforts were too late and expressed surprise at Tel Aviv's actions. Mr. Trump called Mr. Netanyahu on 9/9 to express his outrage.
Nhu Tam (CNN, AFP)