Qatar condemns Israeli airstrikes that killed over 400, warning of regional instability. Israel’s Foreign Minister insists military operations were necessary following Hamas’ rejection of a truce extension. The conflict has led to rising gold and oil prices, while a weakened shekel reflects economic impact. Families of hostages express concern over the military escalation and its implications.
Qatar, acting as a mediator in the Gaza conflict, condemned Israel’s recent military strikes that resulted in over 400 fatalities, according to numbers from the Hamas-run health ministry. The Qatari foreign ministry expressed concern that Israel’s escalating military actions could destabilize the entire region, compromising both security and stability.
In contrast, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar emphasized that Israel had no other option but to continue military operations due to Hamas’ refusal to extend the previous truce aimed at securing hostage releases. He held Hamas responsible for the breakdown in negotiations, insisting that military action was the only viable response.
Israel’s immediate goals include the freeing of approximately 60 hostages still held in Gaza, alongside a demand for Hamas to disarm and relinquish power. Hamas, labeled a terrorist organization by the U.S. and others, has been advocating for the withdrawal of Israeli troops. Since the resumption of airstrikes, Hamas reports at least 404 deaths, with many others unaccounted for.
The recent military operations mark a significant escalation, breaking a period of relative calm in the Middle East. The conflict has impacted global markets, leading to rising gold and oil prices, with Brent crude experiencing a 2.1% increase, reflecting growing market uncertainties. On the currency front, the Israeli shekel has weakened, marking its lowest performance among major currencies.
The strikes are the most severe since the previous truce mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. concluded earlier this year. Despite attempts to negotiate the release of around 25 hostages believed to still be alive, disagreements about future agreements persist. Following the onset of airstrikes, accusations have surfaced from Hamas regarding Israel’s failure to comply with truce terms, particularly concerning aid deliveries to Gaza.
Israeli military assessments indicate that Hamas was preparing potential attacks against Israeli forces. Intelligence findings suggested that Hamas planned cross-border raids, prompting a preemptive military response from Israel. This approach reflects lessons learned from an earlier major assault on October 7, which resulted in 1,200 fatalities.
Families of hostages have voiced concerns over the renewed military actions, fearing for their loved ones’ safety. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum criticized the Israeli government’s decision, suggesting a neglect of hostages’ welfare. Meanwhile, Israel’s far-right coalition members defend the military strategy as unavoidable. The United States was consulted prior to the air operations, underscoring the international dimensions of the conflict.
In summary, the situation in Gaza has escalated dramatically, with Qatar warning of broader regional consequences due to Israel’s intensified military actions, which it conducted after failed negotiations to release hostages held by Hamas. Hamas, in response to the airstrikes, has reported significant casualties and accused Israel of not honoring previous agreements. The repercussions of these strikes include rising global commodity prices and a weakening Israeli currency, reflecting a larger impact on regional stability.
Original Source: gulfnews.com
