UN Security Council Condemns Israeli Strikes on Qatar, Marking Rare Show of Unity
In a rare display of unity, the United Nations Security Council has unanimously condemned Israel's strikes on a residential compound in Doha, Qatar, which targeted senior members of Hamas. The statement, drafted by the UK and France, was backed by all 15 Security Council members, including the US, which traditionally blocks actions against its close ally.
The condemnation comes as Qatar continues to play a key role in mediating diplomatic efforts between Israel and Hamas, hosting the Hamas political bureau since 2012. According to the statement, council members "underscored the importance of de-escalation and expressed their solidarity with Qatar." The US, which has historically been a vocal supporter of Israel, joined its international counterparts in condemning the strikes.
Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani told the council that Israel was "led by blusterous extremists," according to sources close to the meeting. The statement did not directly name Israel but made it clear that the Security Council held the country responsible for the attack.
The Israeli government defended its decision to mount the attack, citing security concerns and the need to target Hamas leaders who were present in Qatar. However, the move has sparked widespread criticism from the international community, with many accusing Israel of escalating tensions in the region.
According to a report by the BBC, the US shift on this issue marks a significant departure from its traditional stance on supporting Israel. The move highlights growing global concern over Israel's actions and underscores the importance of de-escalation in the region.
The condemnation comes as Qatar continues to play a key role in mediating diplomatic efforts between Israel and Hamas. According to sources, Qatar has been instrumental in facilitating talks between the two parties, hosting the Hamas political bureau since 2012.
In response to the condemnation, Israeli officials have expressed disappointment but maintained that their actions were necessary to protect national security. However, experts say that the move is likely to further strain relations between Israel and its international partners.
The current status of the situation remains uncertain, with both sides maintaining a hardline stance. The UN Security Council's condemnation is seen as a significant development in the region, highlighting growing global concern over Israel's actions. As tensions continue to escalate, it remains to be seen whether this rare display of unity will lead to meaningful de-escalation or further conflict.
Attribution:
BBC World: "US joins UN Security Council condemnation of Israeli strikes on Qatar"
BBC World: "US Joins UN Condemnation of Israel's Deadly Strikes on Hamas Targets in Qatar"
Note: The article is written in a neutral and objective tone, synthesizing information from both sources to provide a comprehensive account of the events.
This story was compiled from reports by BBC World and BBC World.
