Qatar Roundup: Gaza conflict, Israeli airstrike, climate change

Qatar, Kazakhstan partnership

Qatar and Kazakhstan strengthened their diplomatic engagement this week as both countries held their third round of political consultations in Astana. Senior officials from Doha and Astana met to review bilateral ties and explore deeper cooperation across political, economic, and regional security areas. The talks form part of Qatar’s ongoing diplomatic outreach to expand its partnerships in Central Asia, reflecting a foreign policy that increasingly prioritises diversified alliances and strategic collaboration.

Gaza conflict

Doha also issued a strong condemnation of the latest Israeli attacks in Gaza, reiterating its long-standing position on the Palestinian cause. Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the strikes as a dangerous escalation that threatens fragile ceasefire efforts and further destabilises the region. The government renewed its calls for an immediate halt to violence and emphasised its commitment to the two-state solution as the only viable path to lasting peace. The statement fits within Qatar’s broader diplomatic role as a mediator in regional conflicts and its consistent advocacy on humanitarian issues affecting Palestinians.

Climate change

In its weekly meeting, Qatar’s Cabinet approved several new memoranda of understanding, including agreements on climate change adaptation, green-growth cooperation, and labour sector development with multiple international partners. The Cabinet also welcomed the Doha Framework Agreement for Peace between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 Movement — a landmark accord facilitated with Qatari support. The government framed these developments as part of its growing leadership in global conflict mediation, sustainable development planning, and international economic collaboration.

Israeli airstrike

Qatar issued another strong denunciation following an Israeli airstrike on the Ain Al Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp in Lebanon, calling the attack a violation of international law and a direct threat to regional stability. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that targeting civilian areas, especially refugee populations already living in precarious conditions, represents an unacceptable escalation. The condemnation underscores Doha's increasing diplomatic activism as the region faces renewed volatility, and its consistent messaging on the need for de-escalation, humanitarian protection, and accountability.