UN condemns strikes on Qatar, stops short of naming 'Israel'
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In its condemnation of the attack on Qatar, in a statement backed by the US, the UNSC has notably avoided naming "Israel" as the perpetrator.
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Smoke rises from an explosion allegedly caused by an Israeli strike in Doha, Qatar, on September 9, 2025 (AP)
The United Nations Security Council on Thursday condemned recent airstrikes on Qatar’s capital, Doha, in a rare move supported by the United States. However, the statement, approved unanimously by all 15 Council members, stopped short of naming "Israel", despite it being the perpetrator.
The condemnation follows the recent Israeli aggression targeting Hamas officials in the Qatari capital, Doha.
The attack marks a sharp escalation in the region and risks disrupting ongoing ceasefire negotiations related to the war on Gaza.
Security Council condemns Doha strike without naming 'Israel'
In a statement drafted by Britain and France, the Council expressed strong concern over the attack, emphasizing respect for Qatar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“Council members underscored the importance of de-escalation and expressed their solidarity with Qatar,” the statement read.
Although "Israel" was not mentioned by name, the language and timing clearly pointed to the airstrike in Doha as the event prompting the Council’s unified response.
US backs statement despite longstanding support for 'Israel'
The United States, typically a staunch defender of "Israel" at the UN, supported the statement, signaling growing dissatisfaction with the recent escalation. According to diplomatic sources, President Donald Trump expressed frustration over the timing and nature of the strike, reportedly ordered by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The US administration even described the airstrike as “a unilateral move that does not advance US or Israeli interests."
Qatar’s role in Gaza mediation under threat
The strike on Doha has triggered alarm due to Qatar’s key role in mediating talks aimed at achieving a ceasefire in Gaza. The Gulf state has hosted several rounds of negotiations between Hamas and international stakeholders, positioning itself as a central diplomatic player in the struggle.
The attack not only endangers those talks but also raises concerns about potential violations of international law and diplomatic norms.
“Council members underscored that releasing the hostages, including those killed by Hamas, and ending the war and suffering in Gaza must remain our top priority,” the statement added.
Qatari PM to address UN following strike on capital
Later on Thursday, the Security Council is set to convene an emergency session to further discuss the strike. Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani is expected to address the Council, marking a high-stakes diplomatic moment for the Gulf nation.
Qatar has not issued a formal retaliation but is expected to push for stronger protections and international accountability during the meeting.
