Keir Starmer has criticized Israel’s bombing of Hamas leaders in Qatar as “totally unacceptable” during a meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog. Following the discussions, a spokesperson from Downing Street referred to the bombing as a “flagrant violation” and highlighted the “manmade famine” in Gaza. The meeting had sparked outrage before the Israeli military targeted top Hamas figures in Doha as they gathered to discuss a US ceasefire proposal for Gaza.
A Downing Street spokesperson later stated, “He condemned Israel’s action in Doha as completely unacceptable, emphasizing that the strikes violated a key partner’s sovereignty and hindered peace efforts. Regarding Gaza, he expressed grave concern and urged Israel to change course by allowing aid and ceasing offensive operations to prevent the worsening of the manmade famine. Both leaders agreed on the necessity of releasing hostages taken by Hamas nearly two years ago.”
During Prime Minister’s Questions, the PM denounced the strikes for violating Qatar’s sovereignty and failing to promote peace. He communicated support and solidarity to the Emir of Qatar and emphasized the commitment to achieving a diplomatic solution for a ceasefire and a two-state outcome.
In response to criticism, Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer downplayed the notion of rolling out the “red carpet” for the Israeli president, stating that President Herzog was on a private visit to the UK.
After the meeting, President Herzog described it as a tough but necessary discussion between allies, recognizing the democracies’ shared understanding of the threat posed by jihadists.