The recent Israeli air strike in Doha, Qatar, targeting Hamas leaders, has sparked a significant diplomatic crisis with far-reaching implications for regional stability, mediation efforts and international relations.
The Israeli air strike on September 9, 2025, which resulted in the deaths of six individuals, has been labelled an unprecedented act against a Gulf state. The incident marked a significant escalation in the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
The attack, which Israel claimed was a ‘wholly independent’ operation, took place while Hamas negotiators were considering a US-proposed ceasefire deal, leading to immediate condemnation and a suspension of Qatar's mediation role.
The Sultanate of Oman strongly condemned this reprehensible aggression and affirmed its full solidarity with the State of Qatar - its leadership, government and people. It emphasises that the security of Qatar is an integral part of the security of the entire Gulf region, and indeed of the entire Arab and Islamic nation.
An emergency Arab-Islamic summit held in Doha, Qatar, brought together heads of state and senior officials from Arab and Islamic countries to address the recent Israeli air strikes in Doha. The summit focused on the consequences of what has been described as unprecedented and dangerous Israeli aggression.
The summit aimed to send a message of solidarity with Qatar and uphold international law and norms that protect mediators and negotiators from being targeted. Discussions covered the repercussions of the situation and the necessary steps to prevent further regional destabilisation due to Israeli aggression.
The treacherous attack that targeted the sisterly State of Qatar has made clear the gravity of the phase we are experiencing and the expanding scope of the war being waged by Israel in the region – in disregard of international law, legitimacy and the sanctity of innocent lives.
The targeting of Qatar, one of the foremost nations working tirelessly towards de-escalation and the revival of the peace process in Palestine, only distances the Arab world further from the noble goal that all seek: a just and comprehensive peace that fulfils the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.
Many believe that the timing of the strike, during ceasefire negotiations facilitated by Qatar, highlights Israel's prioritisation of military objectives over diplomatic considerations, potentially straining vital alliances.
The attack has complicated Washington's position in the Gulf, given Qatar's role as a host for significant American military assets and as a neutral interlocutor with Hamas.
The long-term strategic implications include a potential recalibration of Qatar's mediation approach and other Gulf states reconsidering security arrangements, diversifying alliances, or limiting intelligence-sharing.
The attack is another instance where Israel has violated the sovereignty of a nation, adding Qatar to a list that includes Iran, Lebanon, Syria and Yemen. This pattern of behaviour, described as Israel acting as a ‘rogue state’, raises serious questions about international law and the boundaries of military action.
The Sultanate of Oman believes that the silence of the international community in the face of these violations fuels impunity and encourages further aggression. Therefore, we call on this gathering to mark the beginning of a serious and unified effort – one that translates Arab and Islamic solidarity into clear positions and tangible pressure to end the occupation, halt the assaults and restore the authority of international legitimacy.
In conclusion, the Israeli air strike on Qatar has not only halted critical mediation efforts in the Gaza conflict, but has also profoundly impacted regional security dynamics, challenged US alliances, and raised serious questions about Israel's long-term objectives and adherence to international law.
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