Qatar Roundup: Israeli strike, LNG security, banking growth

Israel strikes Hamas leadership in Doha

Israel launched an airstrike on Hamas’ political leadership headquarters in Qatar on Tuesday, September 9, as top officials convened to discuss a U.S. ceasefire proposal for Gaza. The strike on the soil of a U.S. ally marked a major escalation, angering Qatar, which condemned the attack as a “flagrant violation of all international laws and norms.” Hamas claimed its senior leaders survived but confirmed the death of five members, including the son of Gaza chief negotiator Khalil al-Hayya. The United States said it was notified before the strike but distanced itself, with President Donald Trump calling the incident “unfortunate” and unhelpful to peace efforts.

U.S. think tank warns on Qatar LNG reliance

The Foundation for Defence of Democracies has urged Taiwan to reduce reliance on Qatar for liquefied natural gas (LNG), warning of Beijing’s potential influence over energy supplies. In a tabletop exercise, the group highlighted Taiwan’s dependence on LNG imports, with nearly 30% coming from Qatar under a 27-year supply deal. The report cautioned that China could exploit this reliance through economic pressure, cyberattacks, or maritime blockades, putting Taiwan’s energy security and semiconductor industry at risk. The think tank advised diversification, increased U.S. energy cooperation, and renewable investments.

Qatar firms recognised among Asia’s best workplaces

Great Place to Work named its 2025 Best Workplaces in Asia, with multiple Qatar-based companies making the list. The rankings, drawn from surveys of nearly 7.5 million employees, recognised firms such as Hilton, DHL Express, Marriott International, Cisco, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Chalhoub Group. Jules Youssef, Managing Director for Qatar and the Gulf, said the recognition reflected strong workplace cultures, employee well-being initiatives, and innovative management practices that highlight Qatar’s expanding business ecosystem.

Qatar denounces Israeli ‘crimes’ at UN rights council

At the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Qatar’s Permanent Representative Dr. Hend bint Abdulrahman Al Muftah accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. She condemned the targeting of Hamas political bureau residences in Doha, the destruction of civilian infrastructure, and the killing of journalists and aid workers. Dr. Al Muftah called for urgent international action to hold Israel accountable and to support the creation of an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Banking sector posts steady growth in July

Qatar’s banking sector recorded a 4.5% year-to-date rise in public sector loans to QR1,406.9bn in July 2025, according to QNB Financial Services. While private sector loans remained flat, the loan-to-deposit ratio rose to 134.3% from 132 in June, as loan growth outpaced deposits. Total banking assets stood at QR2.117 trillion, up 3.4% compared to year-end 2024. Analysts noted that public sector deposits rose modestly, led by increases in government and semi-government segments, while liquid assets represented a healthy 31% of total assets.