After the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh, Qatar has raised doubts about Israel’s commitment to ongoing cease-fire talks with Hamas. Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani questioned how mediation could succeed when one party assassinates the negotiator on the other side.
He emphasized the need for serious partners in peace efforts and a global stance against the disregard for human life. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry strongly condemned Haniyeh’s assassination as a heinous crime and a violation of international law.
Efforts by the US, Qatar, and Egypt to mediate a lasting cease-fire between Israel and Hamas have faltered due to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s rejection of Hamas’ call to halt hostilities. Hamas confirmed Haniyeh’s death in an Israeli airstrike on his residence in Tehran, with Iranian state television corroborating the news.
As investigations into Haniyeh’s assassination continue, Israel has yet to issue an official statement regarding the airstrike. The situation remains tense as diplomatic efforts struggle to find common ground between the warring parties.