Official Comments On Israel Conflict Says Report
On October 7, a Qatari representative to the Arab Parliament, Essa bin Ahmad Al-Nassr, made controversial remarks regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. According to a translation by the Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI), Al-Nassr stated that there can be “no peace or negotiations” with Israel and that the recent terrorist attack by Hamas is only the beginning of Israel’s destruction.
Al-Nassr, who holds positions on various committees in Qatar including the Financial and Economic Affairs Committee and the Cultural and Media Affairs Committee, was promoted to the rank of brigadier general in the Qatari military. His statements came as President Joe Biden has turned to Qatar to negotiate the release of Israeli and American hostages held by Hamas.
The Qatari Shura website published Al-Nassr’s remarks, in which he claimed that Israel’s faith does not allow for negotiations and that they only understand “killing”. He also accused Israel of being the “slayers of the prophets”. He went on to say that the recent attacks by Hamas, which have resulted in the deaths of several Israeli civilians, are just the beginning of the end for Israel.
Al-Nassr referenced the Arab Initiative, which was introduced over two decades ago, as an example of Israel’s unwillingness to negotiate. He stated that despite the initiative, Israel has not accepted it and has instead spread “corruption” in the land. He also claimed that the recent attacks on Israeli civilians are just the beginning and that ultimately Israel will be destroyed.
His statements come at a time when the conflict between Israel and Palestine has intensified. Israel launched a military operation in the Gaza Strip after multiple rockets were fired into Israeli territory from the area controlled by Hamas. The attacks have resulted in the deaths of several civilians on both sides, including children.
Since then, President Biden has been calling for an “immediate ceasefire” between Israel and Hamas. He has relied on Qatar to negotiate on behalf of the Palestinian militant group. However, as hostages remain in captivity and tensions continue to rise, Biden has faced criticism for not taking a stronger stance against Hamas.
Qatar, which has been historically supportive of Hamas, has been trying to broker a deal for the release of the Israeli and American hostages. However, Al-Nassr’s statements appear to be in direct contrast to Qatar’s efforts to negotiate with Israel.
The remarks by Al-Nassr have been met with condemnation by Israeli officials. They view his statements as promoting violence and incitement against Israel. The Israeli government has stated that they are committed to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict and that they will continue to work towards achieving it.
The international community has also expressed concern over Al-Nassr’s remarks. Many have urged all parties involved to work towards de-escalation and a peaceful resolution to the conflict. However, the ongoing violence and rhetoric from both sides have made it difficult to achieve a ceasefire and begin negotiations.
In the midst of the ongoing conflict, Al-Nassr’s comments serve as a reminder of the deep-rooted animosity and distrust between Israel and its neighboring countries. As the conflict rages on, the hope for a peaceful resolution seems to be fading, and the international community is left to wonder if there will ever be a lasting peace in the Middle East.