PM Shehbaz Visits Qatar to Condemn Israeli Strike, Express Solidarity

ISLAMABAD/DOHA – : Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Visits Qatar to Condemn Israeli Airstrikes in Doha, Express Solidarity

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Doha on Thursday for a high-level, day-long visit to express Pakistan’s solidarity with Qatar following the Israeli airstrikes that targeted Hamas leadership in residential areas of the Qatari capital. The unprecedented strike, which Israel has openly claimed responsibility for, has drawn global condemnation and raised fears of wider regional instability.

High-Level Delegation Accompanies PM Shehbaz

The prime minister was accompanied by a senior delegation including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi.

Upon arrival at Doha Airport, PM Shehbaz was warmly received by Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al Thani.

Meeting with Emir of Qatar

During his visit, PM Shehbaz held a crucial meeting with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to convey Pakistan’s deep concern over the “unjustified and unlawful” Israeli airstrikes, which were carried out in direct violation of international law and the sovereignty of Qatar.

In a statement issued by the Foreign Office, the prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s “unwavering support for the security and sovereignty of Qatar” and stressed that Pakistan and Qatar share “longstanding, fraternal ties rooted in shared faith, values, and mutual respect.”

He added that Pakistan stood firmly with Qatar in these challenging times and would continue to extend support in all forums.

Condemnation of Israeli Aggression

PM Shehbaz strongly condemned the Israeli assault, describing it as a “brazen violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Qatar,” and warned that such aggression could dangerously escalate tensions in the Middle East.

He emphasized the need for international accountability and called on the United Nations and global powers to take immediate steps to prevent further escalation.

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar echoed these sentiments, calling the airstrike “reprehensible” and a “blatant violation of international norms.” He reiterated that Pakistan “reaffirms its unwavering support for the people and the State of Qatar during this time of crisis.”

Israel Acknowledges Strike

In a rare and provocative admission, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed his country had carried out the attack, stating:

“Israel initiated it, Israel conducted it, and Israel takes full responsibility.”

The Israeli military reportedly targeted a Hamas political office in Doha, claiming it was being used for operational planning. However, the strike hit a densely populated area, causing civilian casualties and destruction to residential buildings.

Qatar’s Strong Response

The Qatari government condemned the attack in the harshest terms. Its foreign ministry labeled it a “cowardly and illegal assault,” warning that it posed a serious threat to both the residents and the sovereignty of Qatar.

Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, in an interview with CNN, lashed out at Netanyahu, saying:

“Netanyahu just killed any hope for those hostages. He must be brought to justice.”

Qatar, which has long hosted Hamas’s political bureau and played a key mediating role in Gaza ceasefire efforts, said the attack effectively ended any ongoing talks regarding hostages and a potential truce.

Widespread Global Condemnation

The international community reacted swiftly and strongly:

• United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack as a “flagrant violation of sovereignty” and called for restraint and a renewed commitment to ceasefire negotiations.

• Saudi Arabia denounced the Israeli strike as “brutal aggression” and expressed full support for Qatar, warning of serious repercussions for the region.

• Turkey accused Israel of sabotaging peace efforts, saying the attack showed Tel Aviv’s intent to use “terrorism as state policy.”

• Iran labeled the strike “dangerous” and a “violation of international law,” warning that such actions risked igniting wider conflict.

• Jordan and the UAE also condemned the attack, urging the international community to act swiftly to prevent further escalation.

• Pope Leo called the situation “very serious” and urged all parties to return to diplomacy and dialogue.

Pakistan Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Peace

In concluding his visit, PM Shehbaz underscored Pakistan’s consistent stance for peace and justice in the Middle East. He reiterated that Pakistan would continue to support diplomatic initiatives for a lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and stand with nations whose sovereignty is threatened.

Read more: PM Shehbaz condemns bombing in Doha by Israeli forces

This visit marked a significant diplomatic move by Pakistan, highlighting its strong ties with Qatar and its firm position against unilateral aggression in the region. The strike on Doha has raised alarm bells across capitals, making it a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern geopolitics.