Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani has called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a “war criminal” over Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
Speaking to British journalist Piers Morgan, Sheikh Mohammed was asked whether he considered Netanyahu a war criminal. He replied, “Of course.”
Qatar Condemns Gaza Strikes
Sheikh Mohammed said attacks on hospitals and schools in Gaza could not be justified. His remarks came amid continued tensions over Israel’s military actions and Qatar’s efforts to mediate between Israel and Hamas.
He also accused Netanyahu of politically targeting Qatar to divert attention from the actions of the Israeli government.
The Qatari leader again condemned Israel’s September 9, 2025 strike on Doha. The attack occurred while Qatar was mediating between Israel and Hamas and killed five Hamas members and a Qatari security officer.
Sheikh Mohammed described the incident as an unprecedented attack on a mediator.
Doha Maintains Mediation Efforts
Despite the tensions, Sheikh Mohammed said Qatar would continue diplomatic efforts. He said Doha would remain engaged with both Washington and Tehran.
He identified Iran’s nuclear programme and sanctions, freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, and regional security as key issues requiring attention.
He said a regional security framework should be based on dialogue, non-interference and non-aggression. He also called for stronger economic cooperation.
Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al-Ansari said Doha was continuing to communicate with the United States and Iran. He said Qatar remained concerned about further military escalation and was working toward a peaceful solution.
The comments come as regional tensions remain high, with Qatar continuing its diplomatic role in efforts to address the wider Middle East conflict.
