Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has strongly rebuffed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent remarks, labeling them as "inflammatory".
This comes in response to Netanyahu alleging the Gulf state of "playing both sides" in Gaza truce negotiations.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al-Ansari emphasised that such comments "fall far short of the most basic standards of political and moral responsibility."
The controversy stems from a statement released by Netanyahu's office on Saturday, which urged Qatar to "decide if it’s on the side of civilisation or if it’s on the side of Hamas."
This criticism has intensified tensions as Qatar continues its efforts to mediate between Israel and Hamas, aiming to secure a ceasefire and facilitate the release of hostages.
Al-Ansari further criticised Netanyahu's portrayal of the Gaza conflict, drawing parallels to historical regimes that used "false narratives to justify crimes against civilians."
He questioned whether the release of 138 hostages was achieved through military operations or through mediation efforts, which he believes are being unjustly criticized and undermined.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with over 50,000 Palestinians killed and widespread devastation in Gaza.
Humanitarian organizations have warned that the Israeli blockade risks leading to a disaster, and aid groups have called for increased access to the besieged enclave.
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