An emergency Arab-Islamic summit commenced in Doha on Monday, convened in a powerful show of solidarity following what participants have labeled a cowardly Israeli aggression that struck the Qatari capital last Tuesday.
The high-stakes gathering, which brings together leaders from across the region, is poised to issue a strong collective statement condemning the attack that targeted the residential headquarters of several leaders of the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas). The summit underscores a firm rejection of the violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and its pivotal role as a mediator in the ongoing war on the Gaza Strip.
A Summit of “Solidarity and Consequence”
In a statement, the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs framed the summit as a pivotal moment, noting it “reflects the broad Arab and Islamic solidarity with the State of Qatar in confronting the cowardly Israeli aggression” and the “categorical rejection of these countries of the state terrorism practiced by Israel.”
The mood was set during a preparatory meeting of foreign ministers held on Sunday, where diplomats drafted the condemnation to be presented to the leaders. In his address, Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani declared that the international community’s inability to hold Israel accountable only encourages its continued aggression.
“The aggression must not be tolerated or tolerated,” he stated, calling for “concrete measures to halt the enemy’s aggression.”
Unified Condemnation from Regional Leaders
Echoing this sentiment, Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit delivered a scathing condemnation, characterizing the attack as an act that “combines cowardice, treachery, and foolishness.” He emphasized that the solidarity stems from deep appreciation for Qatar’s “important, necessary, and valued role” in mediating a truce alongside Egypt.
Speakers throughout the preparatory meeting unanimously emphasized their categorical rejection of the Israeli operation and urged the summit’s leaders to adopt “deterrent measures” against Israel.
Beyond the Immediate Crisis
While the immediate catalyst is the recent attack, the extraordinary summit is also seen as a critical juncture to strengthen Arab-Islamic solidarity and propel joint action to confront broader regional challenges.
The significance of the event is reflected in the intense media spotlight, with over 200 local and foreign journalists and media professionals converging on Doha to cover the proceedings.
The Israeli attack that targeted the residential headquarters of Hamas leaders in Doha last Tuesday was widely condemned by Arab and international observers, as it constitutes a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty, a breach of relevant international laws and conventions, and an attack on a state that plays a mediating role in the truce between the Palestinian resistance and the Israeli occupation.
Source: Agencies (edited and translated by Al-Manar English Website)
