Qatar has firmly denied allegations of interference in Israel’s recent elections, labeling such claims as unfounded and politically motivated. Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari, Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, dismissed accusations from some Israeli politicians and media figures suggesting that Qatar sought to influence the electoral outcome or fund activities aimed at swaying votes, particularly those of Arab citizens in Israel.
In a public statement, Al Ansari characterized the allegations as part of a disinformation campaign, calling them “ridiculous and dangerous.” He noted that the claims had shifted over time, initially alleging Qatar was attempting to sway both Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli left-wing parties, before evolving into accusations of targeting the Arab electorate. He rejected these assertions, saying they reflected an excessive focus on Qatar by certain Israeli political actors, and urged Israeli politicians to concentrate on addressing domestic challenges rather than implicating external actors.
Al Ansari emphasized that Israel’s elections were an internal matter in which Qatar had no involvement or interest. He warned against attempts to use Qatar as a scapegoat for political failures within Israel and stressed that Doha would not accept being drawn into Israeli domestic disputes. He called on any future Israeli government formed following the elections to adhere to international law and relevant United Nations resolutions.
Additionally, Al Ansari highlighted the importance of serious and honest engagement by Israel on the Palestinian issue. He reaffirmed Qatar’s position that the Palestinian people have inalienable rights, including self-determination and the establishment of an independent state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. According to him, such commitments require responsibility and accountability from all parties involved.
Despite the accusations, Qatar insisted it would remain focused on its role as a mediator and on its diplomatic and humanitarian efforts, particularly its support for the Palestinian people. Al Ansari reiterated Qatar’s dedication to working closely with regional and international partners to promote peaceful resolutions to ongoing conflicts and to contribute to broader regional stability.
In closing, he stated that Qatar would not remain silent while its name is used for electoral purposes or narrow political agendas, underscoring the country’s commitment to a just and comprehensive peace in the region.