Israeli media is increasingly criticizing Qatar for its support of Hamas, especially in light of the recent October 7 attacks. Voices within Israel are challenging Netanyahu’s past policies that have contributed to Hamas’s military strength. Qatar defends its actions as being internationally endorsed, but faces scrutiny over its connections to terrorism and the implications for its regime stability.
Recent outcries in Israeli media are highlighting Qatar’s support for Hamas, particularly concerning the military capabilities built up over the years in Gaza. Voices from Israel, led by political figures, are directing criticism towards Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been linked to policies that have allowed Hamas to strengthen militarily, including developing an extensive network of tunnels and an arsenal of rockets.
Historically, Israeli leaders and military officials have supported Netanyahu’s stance on Qatar, with Avigdor Liberman being a notable exception who resigned in protest in 2018. MEMRI, an institute dedicated to monitoring Middle Eastern media, has long criticized Qatari financial contributions to Hamas and warned about the risks of conflict escalation. Dr. Yossi Shain of Tel Aviv University has also criticized Qatar’s contradictory policies regarding terrorism.
Ambassador Ron Prosor has openly condemned Qatar’s financial support for Hamas, asserting that the funds have directly contributed to Hamas’s military devices. He noted that each piece of military infrastructure could have a label indicating Qatari sponsorship. In stark contrast, the Israeli government remains largely silent, with Netanyahu and close aides avoiding public condemnation of Qatar’s role.
The recent shift in rhetoric among some Israeli ministers may reflect a deeper critique of Netanyahu’s previous policies rather than a genuine change in approach towards Hamas’s radical ideologies, which are believed to be impervious to financial incentives. In response, Qatar’s ruling family has issued statements claiming that their support for Hamas aligns with policies endorsed by various international figures and nations.
However, Qatar is now grappling with the damaging connections to the October 7 attacks in Israel, where over 1,200 civilians were killed. There are growing concerns that revelations about Qatar’s involvement could threaten the ruling family’s power, especially in light of historical terrorism linked back to Qatari support.
Despite the U.S.-Qatar law enforcement cooperation agreement established under the Biden administration, Qatar faces challenges in operating legitimately in counter-terrorism arenas. The recent visa waiver granted to Qatar has also come under scrutiny, suggesting that the country has not met certain security benchmarks with respect to its support for terrorism.
Additionally, Qatar’s media outlet, Al-Jazeera, is facing criticism for disregarding U.S. legal requirements and for their alleged surveillance activities targeting U.S. lawmakers critical of terrorist organizations. These controversies contribute to an increasingly complex diplomatic landscape for Qatar, particularly in relation to its ties with Hamas and other extremist groups.
The article highlights a significant shift in Israeli sentiments regarding Qatar’s support for Hamas. Key figures are vocalizing criticism toward Prime Minister Netanyahu’s policies, which have inadvertently bolstered Hamas’s military capabilities. Qatar, for its part, asserts that its involvement aligns with broader international relations, yet faces mounting concerns over its impact on regional stability and its own legitimacy on the global stage. These developments underscore the complex interplay between support for terrorism and international diplomacy, necessitating careful navigation.
Original Source: aurora-israel.co.il
