Qatar PM Blames Netanyahu for Gaza Stalemate, Denies Hamas Funding Claims

Qatar's Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, sharply criticized Israeli leadership in an interview with CNN on Saturday, asserting that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government are the primary obstacle to a peace plan in Gaza. Al Thani accused Israel of delaying ceasefire efforts and failing to uphold its commitments under a memorandum of understanding, stating that only Netanyahu and his "far-right government" benefit from the current situation.

The Qatari PM presented data indicating Israel controls approximately 70% of the Gaza Strip and continues to harm civilians. He also claimed Israel violates its humanitarian aid obligations, with only about 150 aid trucks entering Gaza daily, falling short of a commitment for over 600.

Addressing accusations of financial support for Hamas's military wing and the "Qatargate" scandal, Al Thani dismissed the claims as "absurd," labeling Qatar a "scapegoat" in Israeli political discourse. He detailed that all Qatari aid to Gaza has been coordinated with the Israeli government, intelligence agencies, and the UN. According to him, funds were used to purchase gas from Israel, pay government employees at Israel's request, and assist needy families from lists approved by Israel, a practice previously praised by the Bennett government.

On a regional level, Al Thani revealed that indirect talks between the United States and Iran took place during the week to resume diplomatic efforts. He emphasized Qatar's opposition to blocking freedom of navigation and stated that a military victory against Iran is unattainable, regardless of U.S. strength, while regional countries desire a security arrangement for stability.