Naftali Bennett Threatens to Declare Qatar an Enemy State Amid Escalating Dispute

The public conflict between Naftali Bennett, chairman of the "Together" party, and Qatar has intensified following Bennett's accusations that Doha supports terrorism and is responsible for the October 7 attack. Qatar's embassy in the United States responded sharply, calling Bennett's statements "false information" aimed at advancing his political ambitions. The embassy emphasized Qatar's recognized role in regional efforts, including coordination with Israeli authorities and international actors in Gaza, facilitating ceasefires and securing the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

The Qatari statement also criticized Bennett personally, accusing him of repeatedly attacking Qatar for domestic political gain and urging Israeli politicians to focus on their country's internal challenges. It warned that Israeli disinformation campaigns would not deter Qatar from continuing its role in promoting peace and security.

In response, Bennett released a video escalating his claims, asserting that Qatar financed the October 7 massacre and hosts terrorist leaders in Doha. He accused Qatar of celebrating the attack rather than condemning it and declared that if elected prime minister again, he would declare Qatar an enemy state. Bennett also alleged that during his previous term as prime minister, he obtained intelligence indicating Qatar's financial support to Iran's Revolutionary Guards.

This confrontation marks a significant diplomatic rift, with Bennett threatening formal hostile designation against Qatar, reflecting deep tensions over Qatar's regional activities and its relations with Israel and Palestinian factions.