On Thursday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif left for Qatar to convey “solidarity and regional unity” following Israeli airstrikes that struck residential areas in Doha earlier this week, according to the Foreign Office (FO).
On Tuesday, Israel conducted an airstrike targeting Hamas leaders in Doha, the capital of Qatar, thereby broadening its military operations across the Middle East to encompass the Gulf Arab nation where the Palestinian organization has maintained its political stronghold for an extended period. As reported by Hamas sources, the representatives of the group were struck while engaged in discussions regarding United States President Donald Trump’s ceasefire proposal for Gaza.
Qatar denounced the assault as “cowardly” and labeled it a blatant infringement of international law.
According to a statement from the Foreign Office, “PM Shehbaz, along with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and a high-ranking delegation, will meet with Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani today to express Islamabad’s condolences and support for the Gulf state.”
The statement further emphasized, “The visit highlights Pakistan’s steadfast support for the security and sovereignty of Qatar, as well as its dedication to fostering peace and stability in the Middle East.”
It continued, “The prime minister is scheduled to meet with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Doha to extend Pakistan’s heartfelt sympathies and support for the Qatari leadership and its people.”
As reported by the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan, their discussions “will also encompass consultations regarding Israel’s unjustified assaults on various nations in the region, its persistent aggression, and initiatives aimed at establishing peace in the area.”
Doha and Egypt have played crucial roles in US-supported efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in Gaza, working diligently to facilitate an agreement that would result in the release of prisoners from both sides.
Qatar and Pakistan enjoy robust diplomatic relations, founded on their common faith and values.
Earlier this month, the two nations reaffirmed their dedication to regional peace and stability during a meeting between Pakistan’s senior military official, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, and the Qatari military leadership during his visit to Qatar.
