Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani criticized Israel for escalating conflict in the Middle East, accusing it of implementing pre-existing plans in the occupied West Bank and Lebanon. He noted the ongoing violence stemming from the October 7 Hamas attack, which has led to significant casualties and urged for compliance with international agreements regarding a two-state solution.
In a recent address during the opening of Qatar’s Shura Council, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani openly criticized Israel for escalating tensions in the Middle East, asserting that the Israeli government is pursuing its long-standing strategies to advance its territorial ambitions in the occupied West Bank and Lebanon. He noted, “The easiest and safest way to stop the escalation on the border with Lebanon would have been to stop the war of extermination on Gaza,” emphasizing that Israel has intentionally opted to broaden its military aggression to implement plans that have been established prior to the current conflict. Sheikh Tamim stated that Israel’s aggressive actions extend to Lebanon, where operations against Hezbollah have intensified. He condemned Israel’s exploitation of the international community’s inaction, alleging that it is using this as an opportunity to execute perilous settlement schemes in the West Bank, which has been under Israeli occupation since 1967. The impetus for the recent hostilities can be traced back to the unprecedented attack by Hamas on southern Israel on October 7, which claimed the lives of over 1,200 individuals, primarily civilians. In retaliation, Israel’s military operations in Gaza have resulted in an estimated 42,289 fatalities, predominantly among civilians, as reported by the health ministry in the Hamas-controlled territory. Sheikh Tamim remarked that following such extensive violence, “Israel will have no choice but to comply with what the international community has agreed upon regarding the two-state solution,” underlining Qatar’s and its neighbor’s continuous calls for a resolution to the Palestinian issue based on the establishment of a Palestinian state in tandem with Israel.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, along with Israel’s military operations in Gaza, has heightened tensions throughout the region, particularly affecting neighboring territories like Lebanon. The Qatari leadership plays a significant role in mediating and advocating for diplomatic solutions, including ceasefires and peace initiatives. The historical context of Israeli occupation in the West Bank and past conflicts with Hezbollah also frames the current situation, as the dynamics of power, territory, and international diplomatic responses continue to evolve in this contentious landscape.
In summary, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani’s statements reflect a profound concern over Israel’s military actions and expansionist policies in the Middle East. His call for an urgent resolution to the conflict underscores the pressing need for effective international intervention and adherence to previously agreed-upon solutions, such as the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
