Qatar has rejected Israeli accusations connecting its financial aid to Hamas’s military activities before the October 2023 attack, labeling these claims as diversions from Israel’s own security failures. Qatar emphasizes transparent aid practices and mediates peace between conflicting parties.
Qatar has emphatically refuted allegations from Israel’s domestic security agency, Shin Bet, asserting a connection between Qatari financial assistance and the bolstering of Hamas’s military capabilities prior to the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. In a statement from March 5, 2025, Qatar’s International Media Office characterized these claims as unfounded, suggesting they serve to distract from Israel’s inability to prevent the assault.
Shin Bet’s internal investigation, released on March 4, acknowledged the agency’s shortcomings in thwarting the unanticipated offensive from Gaza, which has spurred ongoing conflict in the region. The report implied that the flow of Qatari funds to Gaza played a role in enhancing Hamas’s military strength, allegedly assisting in the execution of the attack.
In its response, Qatar affirmed that all financial aid to Gaza has been provided with the explicit knowledge and monitoring of both existing and former Israeli administrations, including Shin Bet. The Gulf state categorically denied that any support was allocated to Hamas’s political or military factions.
Since hosting Hamas’s political bureau in 2012, Qatar has continuously faced accusations of endorsing the Palestinian group; however, it has steadfastly denied such allegations. Moreover, Qatar has been instrumental in fostering peace initiatives, notably facilitating a temporary ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, in cooperation with the United States and Egypt.
Qatar’s official statement urged Israeli security authorities to concentrate on securing the release of hostages and establishing a sustainable resolution to the conflict, rather than resorting to what it termed diversionary tactics.
In summary, Qatar has vigorously defended its actions against accusations from Israel, holding that its assistance to Gaza is well-monitored and devoid of any support for Hamas’s military efforts. The recent Shin Bet probe revealed failures in preventing the October attack, prompting Qatar to highlight the need for constructive resolutions rather than blame-shifting. Overall, Qatar positions itself as a mediator for peace while navigating ongoing criticism regarding its relationship with Hamas.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
