DID Press: Qatar called on Israel to issue a formal apology for its recent airstrike on Qatari territory as a condition for Doha to re-engage in mediation efforts regarding Gaza crisis.
According to Axios, the request came directly from Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar. Ten days ago, an Israeli airstrike in Doha killed five Hamas members and one Qatari security officer—a unprecedented event marking Israel’s first attack on a Gulf country and intensifying Tel Aviv’s regional isolation.
Washington is concerned that without Qatar’s participation, reaching an agreement over release of hostages(captives) and halting conflict could become difficult. In this context, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio raised the issue in meetings with Emir of Qatar and subsequently in discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.
Informed sources say Doha has shown flexibility, agreeing that Israel’s apology can focus specifically on the death of Qatari security officer, while also including compensation and assurances of respect for Qatar’s sovereignty. Israel had previously issued a formal apology in 2013 over an attack on a Gaza-bound flotilla that killed Turkish activists.
An Israeli official acknowledged that Tel Aviv had underestimated the consequences of the strike on Qatar. However, Netanyahu is reportedly concerned that any public apology could seriously undermine his political position and the right-wing coalition.
The next meeting to address the crisis is scheduled for next Saturday in New York, between Prime Minister of Qatar and the U.S. Special Envoy.