During a one-day visit to Doha on Thursday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani to express solidarity and urge unity among Muslim nations in response to Israeli provocations, including recent airstrikes targeting residential areas in Qatar.
According to a statement released by state broadcaster PTV, the prime minister emphasized that Israel’s ongoing aggression in the Middle East must be stopped and called for the Muslim world to present a united front against such provocations.
PM Shehbaz strongly condemned the Israeli strikes as a “blatant violation” of Qatar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, highlighting that the leadership and people of Pakistan were deeply concerned over the attack, which contravened international law.
Reaffirming the historical and brotherly ties between Pakistan and Qatar, he stressed that both countries stand shoulder to shoulder in this difficult time. He expressed Pakistan’s complete solidarity with the Qatari leadership, royal family, and citizens, offering sympathy for lives lost and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured.
The prime minister also acknowledged Qatar’s responsible and constructive mediation in efforts to establish peace in Gaza, noting that the Doha strikes undermined regional stability and threatened ongoing diplomatic and humanitarian efforts.
Qatar and Egypt have played key roles in US-backed attempts to negotiate a ceasefire in Gaza and secure prisoner releases on both sides. The Israeli strike targeted Hamas representatives in Doha who were reportedly discussing a ceasefire proposal from US President Donald Trump. Qatar condemned the attack as a “cowardly” act and a violation of international law.
During the visit, PM Shehbaz recalled Pakistan’s call for an emergency United Nations Security Council meeting at Qatar’s request to address recent developments in the Middle East.
He welcomed Qatar’s decision to host an Arab-Islamic Summit on September 15, stating Pakistan’s willingness to co-sponsor and co-organize the event with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
The prime minister expressed gratitude to the Qatari emir for Qatar’s support during India’s earlier aggression against Pakistan.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace, upholding international law, and supporting the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people. They also emphasized the deep brotherly relations between the two countries and their shared dedication to stability in the region.
PM Shehbaz departed after the visit, which included Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and senior aides. The Foreign Office noted that the visit highlighted Pakistan’s unwavering support for Qatar’s security and sovereignty and its ongoing commitment to peace in the Middle East.
