Qatar Blames Israel for Funds Reaching Hamas

Qatar has stated that Israel bears responsibility for funds intended for Gaza's civilian population ending up in the hands of Hamas. This assertion comes in response to a September 19th report by The New Yorker concerning "Qatargate" and Qatar's financial support for the Gaza Strip. The New Yorker article alleged that since 2018, Qatar has transferred up to $30 million monthly to Gaza for civil servant salaries and infrastructure projects, with some of these funds allegedly diverted by Hamas to its military wing, according to sources cited by the publication. The magazine also detailed suspicions regarding advisors to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who are reportedly under investigation for acting in Qatar's interests.

In a statement released on Monday, Qatar's International Media Office called the magazine's claims "false," asserting that Doha has never directly transferred money to Hamas. Qatar maintains that its aid was intended for Gaza's civilians and was channeled through mechanisms agreed upon with Israel and international organizations. Doha emphasized that money, food, medicine, and fuel entered Gaza under the control of Israeli authorities. Therefore, Qatar argues, if any portion of the aid ultimately reached Hamas, Israel, which controlled the delivery mechanism, is accountable.

Qatar also indicated that it is considering legal action in response to the publication.