Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Visits Doha to Support Qatar After Israel Attack

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Photo:Reuters

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Doha for a one-day visit on Thursday to show support for Qatar following Israel’s recent military strike on the Gulf nation. This visit has gained urgency as Qatar considers a regional response to the attack.

Sharif’s office said the Prime Minister would hold talks with Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, focusing on Israel’s “unjustified attacks” and efforts to establish peace in the region. The discussions are expected to include the broader consequences of the strike and steps to strengthen regional security.

Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, previously called the attack “state terror” and confirmed that Gulf and Arab nations are consulting on a joint response. He also announced plans for an Arab-Islamic summit in Doha to discuss coordinated action.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia Express Support

Pakistan has strongly condemned the attack on Qatar, emphasizing the importance of respecting international law and national sovereignty. Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, also expressed full support, stating the kingdom would assist Qatar in all measures without limits and use all its capabilities to help.

The office of Pakistan’s Prime Minister highlighted that Sharif’s visit is meant to show solidarity with both the Emir and the Qatari people, stressing that Israel’s actions represent a “blatant violation of international law.”

Details of the Israeli Attack

The Israeli strike occurred on Tuesday and marked the first direct attack on a Gulf nation by Israel. At least six people were killed, including a 22-year-old Qatari security guard. Israel claimed the target was Hamas leaders based in Doha, although the group confirmed its negotiators survived the attack.

Qatar has played a central role as a mediator in ceasefire and hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas. The country hosts Hamas’s political bureau and works closely with Washington and Cairo to facilitate talks. The recent attack has raised concerns that Qatar might reduce or reconsider its mediation efforts, which could complicate international efforts to stop the war in Gaza.

Rising Casualties in Gaza

The Gaza conflict has been ongoing since October 2023, and the death toll has risen sharply. According to local health authorities, more than 64,600 people have died in Gaza during the campaign. The violence has caused massive displacement and humanitarian challenges, with regional powers closely monitoring the situation.

Importance of the Visit

Prime Minister Sharif’s visit to Doha reflects Pakistan’s commitment to supporting Gulf nations in times of crisis. His meetings aim to discuss diplomatic strategies, strengthen bilateral relations, and coordinate regional responses to the conflict. Analysts believe the visit may also play a role in stabilizing negotiations between Israel and Hamas, preventing further escalation, and reaffirming Pakistan’s position on respecting international law and peace in the Middle East.

This diplomatic visit comes at a critical time when Gulf nations are weighing collective action, and regional security has become a central concern following the unprecedented strike. The one-day visit, although short, carries significant political and symbolic weight.