Prime Minister Mark Carney has strongly criticized Israel’s recent attack on the Hamas political leaders’ headquarters in Qatar. In a social media statement, Carney labeled the strikes in Qatar as an unacceptable escalation of violence and a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty. The strike, which resulted in the deaths of five Hamas members as they convened to discuss a U.S. ceasefire proposal for Gaza, has sparked outrage from various quarters.
Qatar, a crucial mediator between Israel and Hamas during the prolonged conflict, denounced the attack as a clear breach of international laws. Majed Al-Ansari, adviser to the Qatari prime minister and spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, condemned the assault as a grave violation of international norms, endangering the safety of Qataris and residents in the country.
Carney expressed concern that the attack could jeopardize ongoing efforts to broker a peace agreement in Gaza. Israel, while acknowledging Qatar’s mediation role, has accused the nation of not exerting enough pressure on Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu openly claimed responsibility for the strike, emphasizing Israel’s sole involvement in the operation.
The United States, informed in advance by Israel, distanced itself from the attack. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stressed that President Trump viewed the strike as an unfortunate incident that did not promote regional peace. The U.S. officials’ warning to Qatar reportedly came after the strike had commenced, according to Qatari sources.
Trump later reiterated Israel’s unilateral decision in a statement on his Truth Social platform. He assured Qatari leaders that similar actions would not occur in the future. Western leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, condemned the attack, emphasizing the violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and the potential for heightened regional tensions.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for all parties to work towards a lasting ceasefire, underscoring the need to avoid actions that undermine peace efforts. Netanyahu defended the strike as a response to recent attacks on Israeli soil, signaling a broader offensive against Hamas. The escalating conflict threatens ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza, raising concerns about the region’s stability.
