Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Doha on Thursday for a day-long visit to express solidarity with Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani after Israeli airstrikes targeted Hamas leadership in residential areas of the Qatari capital. The visit highlights Pakistan’s strong support for Qatar during a moment of heightened regional tension.

High-Level Delegation Accompanies PM

The Prime Minister was joined by a high-profile delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi.

Upon arrival at Doha Airport, PM Shehbaz was welcomed by Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al Thani.

Solidarity With Qatar

According to the Foreign Office, PM Shehbaz will convey to the Qatari leadership that Pakistan and Qatar share deep, fraternal ties based on faith and values. He will assure them that Pakistan has always stood by Qatar in challenging times and will continue to do so.

During his meeting with Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Prime Minister will express solidarity with the Qatari people in the wake of what Pakistan has termed as “unjustified Israeli aggression” and a blatant violation of international laws. Discussions will also focus on Israel’s ongoing military actions across the region and efforts to pursue peace and stability.

Condemnation of Israeli Aggression

Pakistan has strongly condemned the Israeli strikes. PM Shehbaz called the attack “totally unjustifiable” and described it as a brazen violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity that could endanger regional peace. He reaffirmed that Pakistan “stands firmly with the State of Qatar, as well as with the people of Palestine against Israel’s aggression.”

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar echoed this position, calling the strike “reprehensible” and emphasizing that it was a direct violation of international law. He added that Pakistan remains committed to supporting Qatar during these grave circumstances.

Qatar and Global Reactions

Qatar’s leadership reacted sharply, with Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani calling the strike a “cowardly” act and a clear breach of international law. He declared that Israel’s actions had “killed any hope for hostages in Gaza” and called for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to be brought to justice.

International reactions have also been swift. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres labeled the strike a “flagrant violation of sovereignty” and urged all parties to push for a permanent ceasefire.

Saudi Arabia denounced the strikes as “brutal aggression,” while Turkiye accused Israel of pursuing “expansionist politics” under the guise of counterterrorism. Iran described the attack as “dangerous” and unlawful, while Jordan and the UAE also condemned the strikes. Pope Leo added his voice of concern, calling the situation “very serious.”

The coordinated condemnations underscore widespread alarm that the Israeli escalation in Doha could have far-reaching implications for regional peace and stability.