Qatar has denied Israeli accusations linking its aid to Hamas’s military capabilities before the October 7 attack. The accusations are viewed as deflections from Israel’s own security failures. Qatar emphasizes that all assistance to Gaza was monitored by Israeli administrations and asserts that aid did not reach Hamas’s military wing. The region faces heightened tension following the recent violence.
On Wednesday, Qatar formally rejected allegations made by Israel’s Shin Bet security agency that linked Qatari financial assistance to the enhancement of Hamas’s military capabilities prior to the attack on October 7, 2023. The Qatari International Media Office labeled these accusations as “false,” characterizing them as self-serving narratives within Israeli politics intended to distract from its internal failures.
The Shin Bet report acknowledged shortcomings in preventing the attack from Gaza, stating that Qatari financial influx had significantly contributed to Hamas’s military advancements. However, Qatar countered with a statement asserting that all funds sent to Gaza were under the full knowledge and supervision of both current and prior Israeli administrations, emphasizing, “No aid has ever been delivered to Hamas’s political or military wing.”
Qatar has hosted the political headquarters of Hamas since 2012, an arrangement that has drawn criticism and accusations of support for the militant group, which Doha vehemently denies. The Gulf state has played a crucial role as a mediator, helping to establish a temporary truce between Hamas and Israel, facilitated by the United States and Egypt.
Following the end of the first phase of the truce marked by the exchange of hostages, progress in negotiations has stagnated. Qatar urged Israeli authorities to prioritize efforts to rescue the remaining hostages and stabilize regional security, instead of utilizing tactics to deflect accountability. The statement reiterated that the allegations against Qatar are unfounded and serve only to escalate the conflict.
The context of the accusations is significant: Hamas’s attack resulted in 1,218 casualties, primarily civilians, while subsequent Israeli military retaliation in Gaza has led to at least 48,405 fatalities, with a similar civilian demographic being reported. The ongoing humanitarian crisis prompts calls for constructive dialogue and immediate action toward de-escalation.
In conclusion, Qatar has firmly rejected Israeli claims that its financial aid contributed to Hamas’s military strength leading up to the October 7 attack. The allegations are described as unfounded distractions from internal Israeli challenges. Qatar’s mediation efforts highlight its role in seeking a resolution and emphasize the urgency of prioritizing hostage recovery and long-term regional stability amidst escalating violence.
Original Source: 24newshd.tv
