Qatar's Prime Minister Criticizes Israel's Actions in Gaza

Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani stated that Israel has undermined Qatar’s efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza since the beginning of the conflict. During an interview on "Piers Morgan Uncensored" on September 29, 2026, he condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, labeling them as a "war crime" and asserting that the devastation in the Palestinian territory is unjustifiable. He described the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, as a "massacre" that warrants condemnation, while also calling for accountability for those responsible for that attack. Sheikh Mohammed criticized Israel for targeting hospitals and schools, stating, "Whatever the justifications and the arguments, nothing is justifying this." He noted that over 1,400 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire took effect in October 2025, and he accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement. He also condemned an Israeli strike on Doha in 2025, which targeted Hamas officials during negotiations, describing it as an unprecedented violation of Qatar’s sovereignty. Sheikh Mohammed expressed that Israel's actions have complicated Qatar's mediatory role in the conflict and emphasized the importance of quiet diplomacy for progress. He also discussed Qatar's mediatory efforts between the United States and Iran, outlining three key issues that need resolution to end the war: Iran's right to peaceful nuclear power, freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and reform of regional security arrangements involving the Gulf Cooperation Council and Iran. He stressed the need for dialogue to foster better relations in the region.