Qatar denies Israeli claims linking its financial aid to Hamas’s military capabilities leading to the October 7 attack. The Qatari government labeled these allegations as false and stated that all aid is monitored by Israeli authorities. Amid ongoing tensions, Qatar calls for prioritizing hostage recovery and pursuing peace negotiations.
On Wednesday, Qatar dismissed accusations from Israel’s Shin Bet security agency that linked Qatari financial aid to Hamas’s military capabilities leading up to the October 7, 2023 attack. Qatar described these allegations as “false accusations” and asserted that they represent self-serving deflections within Israeli politics. The Qatari International Media Office emphasized that funds sent to Gaza were always under the oversight of Israeli administrations, including Shin Bet, and claimed no aid was directed towards Hamas’s military or political wings.
The Shin Bet’s internal inquiry admitted its shortcomings in predicting the border assault from Gaza, which resulted in significant hostilities in the Palestinian territory. The agency’s findings suggested that the influx of Qatari funds had contributed to Hamas’s military strength, consequently facilitating the attack against Israel.
Qatar has been home to Hamas’s political bureau since 2012, a role acknowledged by the U.S. But this relationship has led to increasing allegations of Qatari support for Hamas, which Qatar has consistently denied. Additionally, Qatar’s involvement has been crucial in mediating ceasefire efforts between Hamas and Israel and has supported negotiations to alleviate hostilities.
According to Qatar, Israeli authorities should prioritize efforts to secure the release of remaining hostages and strive for sustainable regional security instead of resorting to misleading tactics. Doha stated, “Claims that Qatari aid went to Hamas are entirely false and serve as evidence that the accusers are intent on prolonging the war.” As of the aftermath of Hamas’s attack, over 1,218 individuals, mostly non-combatants, lost their lives, while Israeli military actions in Gaza have resulted in at least 48,405 casualties, predominantly civilians, according to available data.
Qatar has firmly rejected Israel’s assertions that its financial aid facilitated Hamas’s military operations leading to the October 7 attack. The Qatari government emphasized that all aid is monitored by Israeli authorities and denied any connections to Hamas’s military activities. As mediators in the ongoing conflict, Qatar urges a focus on peace efforts rather than finger-pointing, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution that addresses hostages and regional stability.
Original Source: 24newshd.tv
