Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani accused Israel of escalating conflicts in the Middle East to implement its existing plans for the West Bank and Lebanon. He pointed out that halting aggression in Gaza could have prevented further tension, but Israel has expanded its military operations instead. The Emir expressed concerns over the exploitation of international inaction by Israel to push settlement agendas and reiterated the necessity of recognizing Palestinian statehood as essential for peace.
In his annual address before the Shura Council, Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani asserted that Israel is intentionally escalating tensions in the Middle East to advance its long-standing plans for the occupied West Bank and Lebanon. He indicated that halting the ongoing military actions in Gaza would have been the most effective measure to prevent further conflicts along the Lebanese border. However, he contended that Israel has intentionally broadened its military operations to fulfill its existing aspirations in these regions, taking advantage of perceived leniency from the global community. Sheikh Tamim articulated his concerns regarding Israel’s actions in Lebanon, noting the recent intensification of hostilities against the Hezbollah group. He observed that, amidst the conflict that reignited following Hamas’s significant attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2022, violence has escalated in the West Bank, which has been under Israeli occupation since 1967. The Emir highlighted Israel’s exploitation of international inaction to impose its contentious settlement projects within the West Bank. He further remarked on the tragic consequences of the conflict, noting that the death toll from the brutal retaliatory military campaign in Gaza has significantly risen, with civilian casualties disproportionately high. He affirmed that the extensive loss of life and destruction would compel Israel to eventually adhere to the international consensus regarding the two-state solution, emphasizing the necessity for a Palestinian state to coexist alongside Israel. Qatar, alongside other Arab nations, continues to advocate for a resolution to the Palestinian issue based on this principle, stressing the urgency for a peaceful and diplomatic approach to transcend the ongoing violence.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been a chronic issue for decades, characterized by a number of military clashes and political disputes. The recent outbreaks of violence, particularly the Hamas attack on October 7, 2022, have exacerbated tensions, leading to significant casualties and an exacerbation of humanitarian issues in Gaza. Israel’s military response has faced international scrutiny, with allegations of excessive force leading to high civilian death tolls. Additionally, the West Bank has witnessed increased violence and settlement activity by Israel, which many view as an infringement on Palestinian rights and territories. Amid this turbulence, Qatar has positioned itself as a key mediator, actively seeking a ceasefire and advocating for a diplomatic resolution that adheres to the two-state solution framework supported by major international stakeholders.
In conclusion, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani’s remarks highlight significant concerns regarding Israel’s expansionist tactics during a period of heightened conflict in the Middle East. His emphasis on the urgent need for international action and adherence to a two-state solution reflects the broader Arab perspective on achieving lasting peace in the region. As violence continues to escalate, the call for a resolution rooted in mutual recognition and coexistence becomes increasingly critical.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
