Qatar Denies Funding Hamas, Cites Israeli Political Motives

Qatar's Ministry of International Communications issued a rare and forceful statement over the weekend, vehemently denying accusations that it has funded the Hamas organization. The statement, released from Doha, comes in response to Israeli media reports concerning the 'suitcase money affair.' Qatar asserts that these allegations are being promoted by Israeli politicians seeking to deflect attention from domestic political failures and to scapegoat Qatar.

Doha clarified that it has never provided funds directly to Hamas. Instead, Qatar emphasized that its aid has always been directed towards Palestinian civilians in Gaza. All financial assistance and goods, including food, were transferred through Israel before entering the Gaza Strip. Qatar further stated that it did not deliver anything directly, and that the actual distribution of funds and equipment was carried out by UN organizations in full coordination with Israeli authorities.

The Qatari statement also noted that their aid had previously received public support from Israeli leaders. They stressed that any funding that may have reached Hamas outside these approved channels is unrelated to Qatar. Doha pointed to the approaching Israeli elections, claiming the campaign against them has intensified as a result. While Qatar stated it has no interest in interfering in Israeli domestic politics, it warned that it would not remain silent in the face of false claims.

The announcement concluded with a Qatari commitment that no campaign would weaken their support for Palestinians. Qatar reiterated its dedication to mediation efforts as the primary path to resolving the Middle East conflict.