Netanyahu blamed for ending hostage release hopes, Qatar says.
Netanyahu has been accused of shutting down any chance of a hostage release after Israel’s strike in Doha. The charge came from Qatar’s prime minister, who said the attack left families of captives in despair.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, speaking to CNN before a U.N. appearance, recalled meeting relatives of hostages just hours before the raid.
“They are relying on mediation. They have no other hope. What Netanyahu did yesterday — he just killed that hope,” he said.
Anger in Qatar after Doha strike
At least six people were killed in the Qatar strike, which drew anger across the Gulf. Officials warned the attack could derail ceasefire talks and block efforts to free hostages still held in Gaza.
Doha has announced an Arab-Islamic summit next week. Pakistan’s prime minister also plans a trip to Qatar in a show of support.
Gaza war forces mass displacement
In Gaza City, thousands continue to flee. The U.N. says about a million people still live in the north. Many have no money or fuel to move. Amal Sobh, who fled Beit Lahia with 30 relatives, said her cart broke down. “I have 13 orphans with me. One has a high fever. I cannot buy medicine,” she told the AP.
In the south, camps in Muwasi are overcrowded. Some families are now sleeping in the streets. “No water, no food, no bathrooms,” said Atwah Awad.
Netanyahu’s response
There was no direct reply to Qatar’s criticism. But Netanyahu defended the raids and threatened further action. “You either expel them or bring them to justice. If you don’t, we will,” he said, addressing Qatar and others accused of harboring Hamas leaders.
Rising death toll
Gaza’s Health Ministry says more than 64,700 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023. Women and children account for about half. Hamas militants killed 1,200 people in Israel and abducted 251 on October 7 last year. Officials believe around 20 of the remaining 48 hostages are alive.
In the West Bank, two Palestinian boys were shot dead Monday in Jenin, according to local health authorities. Israeli forces have been conducting operations in the city and nearby camps for months.
Earlier, Scopex reported that Trump allegedly warned and lightly slapped Israel on Qatar. Trump gave the go-ahead, and Washington had given advance notice of these plans.
