Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, who serves as both prime minister and foreign minister of Qatar, told Piers Morgan that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a "war criminal". The statement was made while discussing the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where the Qatari official described the actions of Israeli forces as constituting war crimes.
Al Thani emphasized that the responsibility for the alleged violations rests with those who directed the operations in the enclave. He added that, despite the heightened tensions, Doha will maintain its engagement in regional diplomatic initiatives aimed at de‑escalation and conflict resolution.
The remarks were delivered during a live interview that focused on the broader implications of the war for the Middle East. Al Thani reiterated Qatar’s longstanding policy of mediating between conflicting parties, noting that the country’s diplomatic channels remain open and active.
Qatar has previously positioned itself as a facilitator of cease‑fire talks and humanitarian assistance in the Gaza Strip. The prime minister’s comments underscore the Gulf state’s intent to continue that role, even as international scrutiny intensifies over the conduct of the war.
The interview did not disclose any specific diplomatic proposals or upcoming initiatives, but Al Thani’s affirmation of Doha’s involvement signals that the Qatari government intends to keep its diplomatic efforts on the agenda. The statement comes amid a broader regional discourse on accountability and the pursuit of a political solution to the conflict.
Observers note that the labeling of Netanyahu as a war criminal aligns with statements from several human‑rights organisations, though it also risks further polarising opinions within the international community.
Reporting attribution: based on reporting by Middle East Eye — original source: https://www.middleeasteye.net/live-blog/live-blog-update/qatars-prime-minister-calls-netanyahu-war-criminal-says-doha-will.