Crown Prince MBS condemns attack; Ankara slams Israel for ‘choosing war over peace’
RIYADH/ANKARA: Saudi Arabia and Turkiye have publicly condemned Israel’s recent airstrike on Doha, expressing firm support for Qatar and warning of serious regional repercussions if such actions continue.
According to official statements, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) personally called Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani following the strike, which reportedly targeted residential buildings housing members of Hamas’s political bureau in the Qatari capital.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the Israeli assault as reckless and dangerous, emphasizing that such actions risk destabilizing the region. The statement reaffirmed Riyadh’s solidarity with Doha, with Crown Prince MBS assuring the Qatari leadership of “full support” and a readiness to take all necessary steps to protect Qatar’s sovereignty and security.
Turkiye Accuses Israel of State-Sponsored Aggression
Meanwhile, Turkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong condemnation of the airstrike, accusing Israel of using state terrorism and deliberately choosing “war over peace.”
In its official statement, Ankara said the attack was part of Israel’s continued pattern of violating international law and norms, and pledged unwavering support for Qatar in the face of aggression.
“Israel’s escalating hostility is not only a threat to Gaza or Qatar—it is a threat to peace across the entire region,” the statement read.
Turkiye has repeatedly criticized Israel for its military actions across the Middle East and has been vocal in supporting efforts to de-escalate tensions, especially in the aftermath of the Gaza conflict that began in October 2023.
Regional Tensions Escalate
The airstrike on Qatar marks a concerning expansion of Israel’s military campaign, raising alarms among regional powers. The attack has sparked international condemnation, with analysts warning of deepening divisions in the Middle East and the potential for wider conflict.
Both Riyadh and Ankara have called on the international community to hold Israel accountable, urging immediate diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.
